Wednesday May, 5 2021 Devotional
"Therefore He had to be made like His brothers in every respect, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For because He Himself has suffered when tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted." - Hebrews 2:17-18
Jesus understands. The Bible tells us “We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)
He knows how powerful the temptation you face is and exactly what it feels like. Whatever temptation you struggle with, He has been tempted in the same way. He faced it and didn’t sin, which means He went the whole 15 rounds with the temptation and never took a dive. Our sinful nature is ready to cave at the first opportunity, because it actually wants to sin.
That also tells us that the temptation itself is not sin. Temptations will come; it’s what you do with the temptation that counts.
Will you surrender to it? Or will you take the strength that the Lord is ready to give you and stand? The Holy Spirit has been poured into your heart, so you know the strength is there.
The Bible also says that “with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13) And when we have caved in and fallen once again, we have this word, too: “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins...” (1 John 2:1-2) Are you facing temptation? Jesus offers you His Holy Spirit to defeat it. Take the strength He offers you, look for the “way of escape” He promises, and stand.
Have you already fallen again? Jesus has paid for your sin and He intercedes with the Father on your behalf. You’re already covered by His forgiveness.
Lord Jesus, You are my Savior. Your blood has washed away my guilt and by Your Spirit You deliver me from the temptations I face today. They’re too much for me, Lord, but You are able to deliver me. I can stand only by Your strength. Keep me, today, Lord. Amen! Pastor Dan Giles