TEMPTATION (3) My strength is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9 NKJV 2 Corinthians 12:9 You ask, How long will this temptation last? Sometimes the enemys attack is short-term, other times it is long-term. Paul had a thorn in his flesh, one that wouldnt go away. Why did he have it? Pride! Lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me (v. 7 NKJV). Paul spoke five languages and wrote half the New Testament. With credentials like that, its easy to become arrogant. Finally he stopped praying for an exit strategy and began to understand Gods purpose: My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness (v. 9 NKJV). Pride is one of the most neglected subjects in church today. Perhaps thats due to the fact that we receive our teaching from people who struggle with it themselves. Pride doesnt necessarily show on your face, but when youre under pressure it surfaces in your actions and attitudes. Pride originated with satan: I will make myself like the Most High (Isaiah 14:14 NIV). Often the core of atheism is pride; a person with no god plays God. Satan used this strategy in Eden. God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God (Genesis 3:5 NKJV). Thats why Paul told the Philippians, You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though He was God...He gave up His divine privileges; He took the humble position of a slave...Therefore, God elevated Him to the place of highest honour (Philippians 2:5-9 NLT). The key to overcoming temptation is submitting to God and living in daily dependence on Him.
Posted on: Fri, 03 Oct 2014 03:55:06 +0000