TEMPTATION... We've all faced it. We know it is the evil one's carefully crafted weapon, specifically designed to ensnare us mortals. We can sometimes even hear the voice of the evil one in our heads, saying, "No one will ever know. Besides, it won't hurt anyone!" But in our hearts, we know that to cave in to temptation matters because we've allowed ourselves to give in to what is wrong and given away part of ourselves. Thankfully, we can defeat temptation if we do what this verse reminds us:

To recognize temptation when it presents itself.

To know this specific temptation we face is common to mortals, so I can overcome it because others have.

To remember that God is faithful. My Father in heaven won't let me be tempted above what I can handle.

To believe that God will provide a way of escape, so I need to look for it, and resist the evil one behind it, as I draw near to God (James 1:13-15, 4:7-8).

Righteous and loving Father, guard my heart from temptation and my life from sin. I want to serve you with wholehearted devotion. Forgive me for my past sin, and by your grace and through your word, strengthen me with your Holy Spirit so that I may overcome the temptations the evil one uses to separate me from you. Through my Protector and Redeemer, Jesus, I pray with confidence. Amen.