By Pastor Steve Nickodemus
Lead Us Not Into Temptation
“Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field…”
Genesis 3:1a (ESV)
I don’t like snakes. Most people don’t! Perhaps we don’t like snakes because of the way they slither through the grass or the way they hiss at us. Or maybe we don’t like them because they remind us of the story of temptation that led to Adam and Eve sinning and bringing down the curse of sin upon every person.
Everyone is tempted. So often we know the right and good action to take or the right word to say. But instead of doing or saying the right thing we fall into temptation and do the wrong and wicked thing or say the destructive word. This is the great frustration of those who follow Jesus, that though we want to be like Jesus, kind, merciful, and loving, we end up falling into sin and doing what is selfish, judgmental, and hurtful.
Who will rescue us from temptation? Who will save us from the serpent’s wily ways? Who will change our wayward hearts to be hearts that follow after the Lord? Or as Saint Paul says in Romans 7:24, “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?”
Paul answers his own question, “Thank be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” and a verse later, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” You see, Jesus has crushed the serpent’s head and sin no longer rules over us. In Christ Jesus there is forgiveness and peace with God!
No matter what the devil may say to you, no matter how he might tempt you, do not despair! Jesus has defeated the devil and gives us victory over sin, and death, and the devil. The devil may say all matter of evil lies to you, but do not be misled or discouraged. In Jesus Christ… “he can harm us none. He’s judged; the deed is done; one little word can fell him.” Amen!
Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church Colorado Springs, Colorado
