If Jesus Christ was tempted by the devil, don’t you think you and I will be tempted by him also? Becoming a Christian doesn’t shield you from temptations; in fact, they may grow stronger (at least for a time), because the devil will do everything he can to make us turn away from Christ. But Jesus didn’t give in to the devil’s temptations — and neither should we. (You can read about Jesus’ encounter with the devil in Matthew 4:1-11).

How should we deal with temptation? Let me suggest three ways. First, face it — that is, realize it for what it is: an attempt to turn us away from God and His will. Don’t say to yourself, “Oh well, it doesn’t really matter; everyone is doing it.” Instead, face the fact that you are being tempted to do something wrong.

Second, flee from it. If certain situations always tempt you or cause you to stumble, avoid them like you’d avoid a poisonous snake! Paul told his young friend Timothy to “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness” (2 Timothy 2:22).

Then finally, fight it — fight temptation by turning to God in prayer, and with the truth of God’s Word, the Bible. Jesus could have used His supernatural powers to banish the devil from His presence, but instead, He simply quoted the Bible — the same resource God has given us. I’m thankful you have given your life to Jesus. Now grow in your faith, because the closer we are to Christ, the farther we are from the devil.