I presume that most of you read your Bible every day, and enjoy the guidance and blessings that it brings, But did you know that you can gain a bonus that will be of great benefit to you ?
We all know that everyone of us has to meet temptations, and the Devil is so subtle, often hitting us where we are weakest.
In His quiet way Jesus has given us a wonderful method of dealing with the temptations we face. A real bonus to Christian living !
How did Jesus deal with the tempter ? He quoted Scripture at Satan as the answer to the temptations. “It is written” He said. After all this is God’s Word There is nothing like texts of Scripture to drive Satan away defeated. You just try it and see.
It is not a new idea of course, in fact I have met many people who carry a little case full of texts from Scripture, and they read one or two in spare moments that they have , and remember them for such an occasion when needed. Some write or type them out and store them in a handbag or pocket.Sooner or later when they are needed the Spirit calls them to mind, and Satan goes off frustrated.
It is important that we go into this battle against Satan confident of winning. No half-hearted thoughts that we would like to do what we are tempted to do. Have faith that , by God’s grace, we will have the victory. Say No to Satan and mean it.
Paul tells us the we need a Shield of Faith to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. He probably got the idea from the Roman Soldiers who had a shield covered with thick leather, and the flaming darts would sink in and the flame be extinguished. We need to have a quiver full of texts to shoot back at temptations when they come, so here are just a few examples you can write or type out on bits of post card and learn them ready for the fight. Perhaps you could have a little envelope to put them in.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” “I am with you always, even to the end” “Ask and it will be given you” “It is written, You shall not tempt The Lord your God” “Look unto Me and be saved” “Through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit has set you free from the law of sin and death” “If Christ be for us, who can be against us” “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us” “He is the Christ, the Son of the living God” My God is with me. Get behind me Satan you offer not the things of God. Of course there are thousands you can find yourself as you look for them in your daily readings. .So Fight the good fight with all your might. for the battle is The Lord’s.
Happy Victories, Gerald Gossage.