“Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be
tempted of the devil.”
— Matthew 4:1

A holy character does not avert temptation-Jesus was tempted. When
Satan tempts us, his sparks fall upon tinder; but in Christ’s case, it
was like striking sparks on water; yet the enemy continued his evil
work. Now, if the devil goes on striking when there is no result, how
much more will he do it when he knows what inflammable stuff our hearts
are made of. Though you become greatly sanctified by the Holy Ghost,
expect that the great dog of hell will bark at you still. In the haunts
of men we expect to be tempted, but even seclusion will not guard us
from the same trial. Jesus Christ was led away from human society into
the wilderness, and was tempted of the devil. Solitude has its charms
and its benefits, and may be useful in checking the lust of the eye and
the pride of life; but the devil will follow us into the most lovely
retreats. Do not suppose that it is only the worldly-minded who have
dreadful thoughts and blasphemous temptations, for even
spiritual-minded persons endure the same; and in the holiest position
we may suffer the darkest temptation. The utmost consecration of spirit
will not insure you against Satanic temptation. Christ was consecrated
through and through. It was his meat and drink to do the will of him
that sent him: and yet he was tempted! Your hearts may glow with a
seraphic flame of love to Jesus, and yet the devil will try to bring
you down to Laodicean lukewarmness. If you will tell me when God
permits a Christian to lay aside his armour, I will tell you when Satan
has left off temptation. Like the old knights in war time, we must
sleep with helmet and breastplate buckled on, for the arch-deceiver
will seize our first unguarded hour to make us his prey. The Lord keep
us watchful in all seasons, and give us a final escape from the jaw of
the lion and the paw of the bear.

On this day...

• Proverb 22 - 2024
• Proverb 21 - 2024
• March 25, 2014 - 2014
• Obedience is not a means of justification, but it is a crucial component of the Christian life - 2014
• Proclaim that His name is exalted - 2011
• He has become my salvation - 2011
• Unwaivering Righteousness - 2011
• Unsung But Singing - 2009
• Proverb 20:22 - 2007
• 1 Timothy 4:13 - 2007