Devo, John

Commit To Resist Your Temptation

Commit To Resist Your Temptation

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Jesus answered, “It is he to whom I will give this morsel of bread when I have dipped it.” So when he had dipped the morsel, he gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. Then after he had taken the morsel, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, “What you are going to do, do quickly.” Now no one at the table knew why he said this to him. Some thought that, because Judas had the moneybag, Jesus was telling him, “Buy what we need for the feast,” or that he should give something to the poor. So, after receiving the morsel of bread, he immediately went out. And it was night. — John 13:26-30

John writes about this moment in a way that tells us what was happening at that moment was very cryptic to the ten men in the room. However, two men, Jesus and Judas, were keenly aware of what was going on. If we focus on these two men, we see one who remained composed in the face of betrayal by a long-time friend and follower, and another who was seized by selfish intent to the point that his actions would set in motion events leading to the crucifixion.

While I am inclined to judge Judas for his response in that moment, I must also acknowledge my own moments where sin and selfishness have taken hold of me. I have broken promises, shared confidential information, and engaged in dishonest behavior that undermines the trust others have placed in me. I have prioritized my own desires, ambitions, or material possessions over the well-being and interests of others. I have succumbed to greed, envy, and other vices, making choices that go against our biblical values. Moreover, I have failed to take responsibility for my desires and actions, following a path of increasing sin.

The truth is, when I act in this manner, I hurt those closest to me—my wife, children, friends, and colleagues. But more significantly, it is a spiritual offense against Jesus, who extends to me a piece of His body in the form of grace.

I recognize that you, too, have experienced such moments. We all have.

Today, let us make the decision to resist the temptations of Judas. Let us fight against the satanic impulses that drive us to act on selfish desires. Instead, may we act on righteous spiritual convictions and reject unrighteous fleshly gains. Let us resist the temptations that lead us astray into deeper and darker sins, choosing the path of holiness. As believers, let us commit ourselves to being faithful, loyal, and selfless to Jesus, who exemplified faithfulness, loyalty, and selflessness in the face of unrighteousness and sin.

If you are ready to make this commitment, let me know in the comments below by writing:

"I am committing to resist _________________ temptation."

ASK THIS:

  1. How can I identify areas in my life where I may be acting like Judas, betraying trust or prioritizing personal gain over the well-being of others?
  2. In what ways can I actively resist the temptations of selfishness and align my actions with the example of Jesus, showing love, integrity, and selflessness in my relationships and interactions?

DO THIS: Make a commitment to resist temptation.

PRAY THIS: Dear God, give me the strength and wisdom to resist the temptations that seek to lead me astray, and give me the courage to walk in the path of righteousness, following the example of Jesus. Amen.

PLAY THIS: He Will Hold Me Fast.

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30 thoughts on “Commit To Resist Your Temptation”

  1. Peter Hopkins says:

    With God’s help, I am committing to overcome my selfish wants and desires. Too often I fall short, be it lust, be it pride, be it wanting worldly things. I need the contentment and comfort of the Lord and the satisfaction of His grace as my gift of salvation. As a committed Christian, I need the Holy Sprit to take a more active role in my life, and for me to surrender myself to Him. Help me Lord.

    Reply
  3. Rick says:

    I make commitment to resist temptation of lying, defending, irresponsibility, hurtful speech, anger, and bullying my wife. She is God’s daughter… and as her husband I am comnansed by God in HIS word to LOVE HER AS CHRIST LOVED THE CHURCH. This is not a recommendation or suggestion… but a direct command from God to ALL husbands, especially me. Lord please forgive my disobedience. Thank You Lord.

    Reply
  9. David Josker says:

    I David am commiting to resist the temptations of selfishness in any way. Help me Lord to stay focused on you.

    Reply
  12. Joel says:

    I’ve been participating in this daily devotional for almost two years now. I feel like my faith has matured in so many ways. I thank you for this ministry. A quick question, in the past you always began by referring to us as gentlemen, fellas, etc. I noticed lately that you are referring to us as ‘Church”. Just curious as to why?

    Reply
    • Chris Caliguire says:

      In case he doesn’t reply…..as believers, WE are the Church, not a building. Maybe you’ve heard your Pastor say, “ok Church, let’s stand for prayer”. It’s simply a Biblical reference to all believers…as far as Vinces reasoning for switching gears, I would not know. Maybe he’s showing us love and respect by switching terminology. A gathering of believers vs just a social club.

      Reply
  13. Heriberto Vasquez says:

    I’H Vazquez am committing to think of my desires less before my wife and children. Not aloud temptation to sneak in!! Trust in Jesus amen 🙏

    Reply
    • Mark says:

      Lord I ask that you would be with my brother Rich as he seeks strength in overcoming the temptation brought on by the internet and lustful selfish desires.

      Reply
  15. Mark says:

    Lord I stand with my brother Tom as he asks for prayer today. Be with him Father in his desire to overcome any form of temptation and selfish behavior.

    Reply
  16. Tom Fredericks Sr. says:

    With God’s help, I am committing to resist any and all narcissistic and selfish behavior which results in me succumbing to temptation in any form. LORD Jesus help me! 🙏

    Reply
    • Mark says:

      Lifting you up in prayer Jason. So many of us share in the battle of overcoming lust, God is faithful though. Trust Him in those times of temptation!

      Reply
  18. Mark says:

    I am committing to resist the temptation of sexual immorality in all of its forms, lust, pornography, and selfish sexual desires and choices.

    Reply
    • Mark says:

      Joining you in prayer Marty that God would strengthen you anytime that lust and temptation are present. Our God is always there to see us through!

      Reply
  20. Michael Whitney says:

    I, Mike Whitney, make a commitment right now to resist sexual temptation. I ask you, Jesus, for the strength, wisdom, and courage to overcome this temptation every time it comes, until you come to get me.

    Reply
    • Mark says:

      Praying for you and with you brother. God hears our prayers and has promised to strengthen us to overcome temptation and any trials we experience!

      Reply
    • Hank says:

      I am committing to stop lustful thoughts.
      Vince, I am confused as you say 10 disciples didn’t know. Wouldn’t it be 11 as only Judas and Jesus knew.

      Reply

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