Introductory Thoughts
Man never sins without willingly doing so. Unfortunately, man’s vocabulary infers that sin is simply an uncontrollable accident or unfortunate mistake. Yet, in reality, we choose to sin. This is extremely obvious when one considers that the Lord promises “a way to escape” during every temptation. It is not that the Lord offers a way to avoid temptation altogether, but He offers help that man “may be able to bear it [the temptation].” Man can never point his finger toward God in an attempt to assign some level of guilt for man’s sins. God always makes a way for man to righteously endure and conquer every type of temptation known to man. The failure to escape from any temptation is not for lack of opportunity to do so.
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For smaller children) To have victory over temptation, we must believe God can help during every time of need (Hebrews 2:18; 2 Peter 2:9). He tells us to pray (Hebrews 4:16), use His word (Ephesians 6:11, 17), resist (James 4:7), and flee (1 Corinthians 10:14; 1 Timothy 6:10-11; 2 Timothy 2:22).
-
What are your besetting sins? When is the last time you chose to fall prey to one of those sins? Looking back, can you remember Gods way to escape? Why do you think you choose to ignore that way to escape?
-
How did Jesus Christ escape temptation when dealing with the Devil? How could you escape through the same means?
Prayer Thoughts
- Thank God for offering you victory when tempted.
-
Ask God for power to take the way of escape when tempted.
Song
JESUS! WHAT A FRIEND FOR SINNERS
