When Jesus was tempted by the devil, He showed an effective strategy for overcoming some of life's toughest temptations (Matthew 4:1-11).
Key #1 -- Commit to the Word of God.
Jesus knew that no one can stand against evil if they depend of this world to meet their deepest needs. When tempted to show off His power and make food appear from rocks, He answered: "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"
- Do you depend on God to meet your needs and satisfy your desires? Do you read the Bible?
Key #2 -- Respect the Authority of God.
When offered another opportunity to show off his power, Jesus wisely responded: "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Jesus knew that the Father had the power to do anything, anywhere -- particularly on His behalf. But Jesus also honored the authority of God, not willing to "put Him to the test" for reasons of pride or self-exaltation.
- Do you respect the authority of God? Are you careful to preserve God's reputation by the way you live? Do you obey Him?
#3 -- Determine to Serve God Alone.
Committing to the Bible and respecting God are important, but you won't overcome evil in your life until you dedicate yourself to God -- to serve Him as your Master. Jesus, when tempted with power and influence, replied: "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.'"
- Are you 100% devoted to God?
Temptation will always be with us, but by following the example of Jesus, we can overcome it. We can remember Hebrews 4:15:
"For we do not have a high priest [Jesus] who is unable to sympathize with our weakness, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are, yet was without sin."
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