Scripture to Read: Matthew 5:28
Since our minds are where our battles with temptation begin, we must guard our minds well. God’s Word tells us in Ephesians 6:10–18 that we must put on the whole armor of God, knowing the battlefield we walk into each day. In Ephesians 6:17, God’s Word tells us to make sure we have the “helmet of salvation” on and that we continually take up “the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God.” A Roman soldier's helmet guarded his head on the battlefield, and his sword was used to kill his enemies. As we saw in yesterday’s devotion, our minds must be renewed and focused, and there were several Scriptures to examine yesterday to help with that. As we take up the “sword of the Spirit,” we can kill the temptations we battle with each day. Jesus is our perfect example of overcoming temptation. In Matthew 4:1–10, Jesus battled with Satan’s temptations, and Jesus defeated every temptation by quoting God’s Word. God tells us in Psalm 119:9–11, “How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. 10 With all my heart I have sought You; Do not let me wander from Your commandments. 11 Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You.” Our lives stay pure by obeying God’s Truth. As we pursue our intimacy with God and His Word, we will not turn away from His commands. And as we store up/treasure God’s Word, we will not sin. The daily choice is ours.
Challenge & Application
· What are you doing to make sure you’re putting on God’s armor each day and preparing for battle?
· How are you pursuing your intimacy with God and His Word so you don’t wander from His commands?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!