POISED TO POUNCE


Even if you are a Christ-follower with an exceptional character of holiness you will find it next to impossible to avoid temptation. Just remember, Jesus was tempted. When Satan’s fiery darts of temptation strike you, more times than not you will ignite like tender box of kindling into a flame of sin. But take note that when Christ was positioned for temptation, it was like striking sparks against water. Nonetheless, the Devil went about his evil work against Jesus. He continued launching darts at Christ when there was no result, how much more he will do to you because he knows what combustible stuff your heart is made of.

Even if you become significantly sanctified by the Holy Spirit, expect that the Liar from Hell will still make the continued effort to light your fire. In your preoccupied lifestyle you can expect to be tempted. Even seclusion will not guard you from those inevitable trials. Jesus Christ was led away from the hurriedness of society into the seclusion of the wilderness, and was tempted of the Devil. “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted there by the devil” — Matthew 4:1. Solitude has its allure and its benefits, and may be useful to keep the lust of the flesh and the pride of life in check, but it won’t hinder the old Serpent from following you into the most divine retreats.

Don’t make the mistake in thinking that it is only the secular-minded of this world that have horrible thoughts and profane temptations. Those who are spiritually-minded endure the same.  Sometimes it is in the holiest situations where you may suffer the darkest temptation. Even the highest consecration of spirit will not insure you against satanic temptation. Remember that, Christ was consecrated through and through. It was His passion, His hunger, and His desire to do the will of God and yet He was tempted!

Your heart may be fired-up right now with a heavenly flame of love towards Jesus, and yet, Lying Lucifer will try to bring you down to a Laodicean-lukewarmness. Tell me where and when in God’s Word He has permitted Christians to set aside their armor and I will tell you when Satan has ceased with temptation. Like our soldiers in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan you must sleep with your helmet of salvation and flack-jacket of faith strapped on for the master-deceiver will seize upon your first unguarded moment to make you his victim.

“Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping” — 1 Peter 5:8 THE MESSAGE

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