Here’s a quote for you to chew on… “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you ought to.”
When I read Matthew 4:1-11 about when Satan tempted Jesus in the desert, I pondered on how to make this historical story applicable to my life. I said to myself, “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you ought to.”
Jesus could have easily turned the rock into bread to satisfy his hungry from fasting for forty days. But He didn’t, and even backed it up with scripture.
Jesus could have easily jumped from the highest point, and not even needed the angels to grab Him before touching the ground…but He didn’t, and even backed it up with scripture.
Jesus could have bowed down to Satan after Satan promised to give Him all the kingdoms and splendor in the world… but He didn’t, and even backed it up with scripture.
You see, Satan was tempting Jesus in three areas of His life: physical needs and desires, possessions and power, and pride. He does us the same way.
You may be (probably) tempted by Satan daily. You need to remember that BEING TEMPTED IS NOT A SIN. WHEN YOU GIVE IN TO TEMPTATION AND DISOBEY GOD, THAT IS A SIN.
I love a statement I read in NIV Study Bible, it reads, “A person has not shown true obedience if he or she has never had an opportunity to disobey. We will be tested. Because we know that testing will come, we should be alert and ready for it. Remember, your convictions are only strong if they hold up under pressure.”
Jesus could have done and given in to Satan’s temptations, but He didn’t.
Satan desires for you to give in to the temptations he presents to you, and you could give in, but just because he does doesn’t mean you ought to.
I pray many blessings and much joy for you! Have a wonderful day. – Stephanie
