If Christ was not above temptation, then neither are we!  We live in a world full of temptation.  Satan prowls throughout the world looking for a way to devour us!

I Peter 5:8 (NIV) “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

Thomas Aquinas, in The Summa Theologica, addresses Christ’s temptation on the mountain.  Christ’s example was to strengthen us against the inevitable temptations of the world.

Christ experienced temptation and did not fall into it…
Mark 4:3-11 (NIV)

1. The temptation of food, after not eating for 40 days. “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.”

2. Satan then took Jesus to show him all the kingdoms of the world. “I will give you all their authority and splendor, for it has been given to me…So if you worship me, it will all be yours.”

3. “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here” (the highest point of the temple)…“and angels will guard you and save you…for it is written!”

Temptation hits us at the core of our spirit.  Satan knows which buttons to push.  He looks for our weaknesses and focuses on those weaknesses where it is easiest for us to fail.

REMEMBER: Temptation is NOT sin.
Many times, we think we can resist on our own. Then the temptation becomes too great for us to bear.  We think we may need to give in just to feel better.  However, God has a better plan.  He has a way out for us when we call on Him to help us.

I Corinthians 10:13 (NIV) “ No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

~ Take it to heart ~

Be aware…you will be tempted.
Be prepared…God has a way out when you trust in Him.