Today's reading: Hosea 2, 3, 4, 5; Hebrews 2
S) "18 For since He Himself was tempted in that which He has suffered, He is able to come to the aid of those who are tempted." - Hebrews 2:18 (NASB)
O) There are several verses that refer to Jesus being tempted. I think it's a common mistake, though, that people assume it was easy for Jesus. I don't think that's possible, though. Can you be brave without fear? Can you love without sacrifice? Can you be tempted if it's easy to abstain? I don't think so. This verse confirms it by pointing out that in His temptation, there was suffering! It is because of this common struggle that we have (ourselves and Jesus), that we can be assured He is able to help us through our temptations. He understands what it means to struggle with temptations, both in spirit and in body.
A) My first response to temptations should be to pray. Specifically, to pray for Jesus to help me directly. I mean, this is, in fact, what it means to have a personal savior. That God would have a personal interest in me, to help me, and deliver me. Jesus understands temptation on a very real, literal, exact level. Who better to have compassion than some one who has been through it? Furthermore, who better to have compassion than some ome who can actually help me? Step one: talk to Jesus. Step two: ask for help. Step three: let him deliver me!
P) Father, please forgive me, in Jesus' name, for the times I've given in to temptation. I thank you for the forgiveness that is assured to me, because of the sacrifice of Your son. Holy Spirit, remind me of the source of my help. Remind me of where to turn when temptation grips me. My help is in the Lord Jesus Christ. God, I thankful that I'm not alone in this world, struggling on my own to live a right life. I don't want to waste any of your gifts. Help me in that. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.
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