No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 1 Cor. 10:13 (NIV)
When the devil had finished tempting Jesus, he left him until the next opportunity came. Luke 4:13 (NLT)
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. John 10:10 (ESV)
Dear Lord Jesus, I praise you for the daily-ness of your warnings, and the persistence of your woo-ings. Everyday, sometimes every hour, we have life and death choices set before us. Satan intends to steal, kill, and destroy us; but you give limitless mercy, abounding grace, and abundant life. The very fact that we often pause between these two choices underscores our weakness and vulnerability; and just how much we need you as this day begins and will continue.
Jesus, some of us are highly tempt-able right now. Grab us and grace us. Temptation is raging and it looks pretty appealing. Whether from weariness in well doing or the exhaustion of difficult relationships; the ache of unfulfilled longings or the pain of living in craziness; the quest for new adventure or the lure of old memories; a plan to out-hurt those who have hurt us, or unguarded moments of carelessness—we are weak and we need you.
Thank you for your promise, that with every temptation we face in life—every one of them, you will always provide a way out and grace to endure. Show us what that looks life today—especially when our cry for relief is much stronger than our cry for a changed heart. Like Esau, sometimes a bowl of hot oatmeal in hand looks a lot more satisfying that the promise of a future inheritance.
Help us make redemptive choices today—choices that celebrate the abundant life you freely give us. Help us, Lord Jesus, for your honor, glory, and praise. So very Amen we pray, in your powerful and precious name.
