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“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”  Matthew 26:41 (ESV)

Driving in the early dawn or near dusk can be quite tricky this time of year.  Why? Bambi and all her friends love to run across the road. It’s not just fall – it’s deer season.  And we know what that means don’t we?  Whether we’re driving down country roads or maneuvering through the city, we have to keep our eyes alert for those four-legged beauties racing towards our car.  Don’t even have to explain how damaging a hit can be – we’ve probably all been there.

Keeping one’s eyes on the road and being aware of our surroundings is crucial to avoid a hit.  Distractions absolutely won’t serve us well – being strategic, intentional and alert is the best solution.

Awareness is priceless and it isn’t just regulated to driving. Every day we are bombarded with beautifully disguised temptations.  Tricky encounters which usually strike when we least suspect.  Compromises that sound inviting without the consequences.  Excuses lingering in the quiet stillness of the shadow of another day….a pivotal choice left up to us.  Images from the “old us” enticing the “new us” to entertain a little indulgence at the expense of God’s sweet grace. Definitely not the place to land.

Regardless of how far we are along in our faith journey, we have to keep our eyes alert.  New believers or seasoned saints, we all are moving targets for the attacks of the enemy.  And sweet friends, I don’t have to explain how damaging a hit can be – we’ve probably all been there.

Matthew 24 reveals two incredible weapons that are guaranteed to serve us well in the battle – watch and pray.  Both options require action on our part.  Both enlisting the help of the Holy Spirit to illuminate our eyes to danger and strengthening us to boldly come to the throne of God admitting our weakness.

You might wonder why we can’t just depend on self.  Well, we could all write that book couldn’t we?   The enemy loves to convince us we’ve got it all covered.  This little temptation is really insignificant in the scope of all things.  Everyone else is doing it.  No one is getting caught.  The pleasure is worth the moment.  Sweet enticing words straight from the lips of one who strategically desires to devour, defeat and slay us.

Not buying that line, are we?  We all face temptations, but the key is what we do with those moments.  Are we alert, awake and fully aware of “our” triggers to cave?  Are we intentional, strategic and purposeful in seeking the help of the Holy Spirit?  Are we bowed before the throne of God desiring holiness versus a cheap temporary pleasure?

Actively resisting the enemy’s schemes will always position us for God’s best.  It’s the perfect place to land admitting our weakness yet being empowered with God’s mighty strength.

“Father, You have given us the tools to be victorious over temptation. Thank You for protecting us, delivering us and sheltering us.  We are more than conquerors in Your strength.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life