As I have studied “temptation” I wrote about Jesus being tempted by the evil one after completing a 40 day fast. He was tempted and yet resisted. Even in the weakened state He was able to resist the evil one and serves as the example that we too can resist. The thing is that we will not be in such a weakened state, but rather just walking through life.
This morning as I read, I am again reminded that Jesus walked this world as I do. He was subjected to the same world and challenges. He was tempted by those things that I am. Yet, He resisted. Knowing all that He was tempted, He knows me even better now. He knows my weaknesses. He knows where I will fall. He knows where I will give in. He knows of all that I am challenged with as He too was challenged. Yet, He resisted and knows that I can as well.
“18For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” — Hebrews 2:18 (ESV)
Jesus knows that I am human. He knows that I am weak. He needed to experience my suffering so that He would be able to demonstrate His understanding of my suffering. I am not unique in the temptations that I experience, even Jesus experienced them and resisted as He has shown.
I am not alone in this battle, Jesus has been here. He walked as I do. He knows first hand the struggles I face. I have to lean on Him for help in my time of need. I have to reach out to Him daily, perpetually, to allow Him in my life to help me avoid, deal with, and be delivered from the temptations that are presented to me. He knows what I go through and is there to help guide me through it.
What temptations are you experiencing? Are you trying to go it alone? What if you approached them with Jesus knowing that He has been there and knows exactly what you are going through?
Trevor's Thoughts 