Over-Comers

• Matthew 4:4 Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
• Matthew 4:7 You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.
• Matthew 4:10 You shall worship the Lord your God and Him only shall you serve.

These passages of scripture above taken from the temptation of Jesus by Satan in the desert have for us three distinct directions for fighting our own temptations. Each passage is powerful and was able to cause Satan to flee in light of the truth of scripture. SO here is the key for us. Speak the word of God and find victory in your life.

We should note from the beginning of this study that the first steps require a complete trust in God. This is not magic potion type of stuff; this is speaking out what we believe and what we know to be truth. So much of life revolves around belief. We believe in God, we believe in our friends and significant others, we believe in our spouses and children, and we can believe in the word of God as well.

In the spiritual war that wages in our lives and minds, the only weapon used as the offense is God’s word. Yes, we have been given the armor of God (reference Ephesians 6), but there as well, our only offensive weapon is the sword, which is called the word of God. Here is some truth: God’s word is all we need in our offensive attack against the evil that comes to tempt us into evil.

Before you get off on this idea, let me say that every part of the armor of God is important. We are in a spiritual battle, and defense is vital as well. We need to know how we are grounded with truth and righteousness and how we are to believe and to pray. These are the things that protect us. But when it comes to doing battle, we need the strong word of God. The battle is the Lord’s; God is at work in us performing His will and purpose.

The question is this. How can we overcome if we do not practice and speak the words of God when tempted? I can protect myself, I don’t need to watch certain types of TV or internet, I don’t go past bars where I am tempted to drink, I don’t let myself get bogged down with negative friends, and the list could go on . However, in all I try to do, I am never strong enough to protect myself from these things without God’s word. Sin creeps in when I least expect it too.

On the other hand, if I am actively speaking and feeding on the word of God, then this becomes the place where I have the advantage to overcome the things that try to overpower me in my life. Here is the challenge. Start today to actively speak and study God’s word. Put into practice the words that speak to your issue. Feed upon scripture that builds you up, and then at the end of the day ask yourself: “With God’s help, did I overcome today?”

I know the answer in your life and mine will be YES!

Blessings, Rip