While we live here on earth, we encounter obstacles, trials, and tests. Our handling of these temptations will determine where we spend eternity. Let's give temptation a closer look.

• "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials," {James 1:2}
• Temptation comes in various forms. In one way or another, we all deal with fleshly trials. Some occur because of our jobs; and others result from weakness. We must prepare for temptation.
• "In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials," {1Peter 1:6}

Temptation springs from all fronts-friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, and, brethren. Yes, even brethren. Suppose a brother in Christ wishes to share with you some gossip about another brother or sister. Should you listen? This is a subtle temptation.

• "But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desire and enticed." {James 1:14}
• "For this reason, when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain." {1 Thessalonians 3:5}

Never forget that Satan is behind every temptation! He uses our own desires to trap and enslave us into doing his will. His only aim is the spiritual ruin of our souls. This is the purpose of each temptation. Remember, Satan doesn't care about you!

• "That the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ," {1 Peter 1:7}
• "But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you." {1 Peter 5:10}

Is temptation helpful in any way? Yes! Withstanding and overcoming temptation can make us stronger and more determined to serve God. We become better prepared to endure the next trials and temptations Satan sets before us. We can win--believe it!

• "Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him." {James 1:12}

Endurance is the key to victory. Temptation is temporal; it will not last forever. We need to face it with the knowledge that it cannot defeat us, unless we provide the opportunity. God will deliver us.

• "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. " {1 Corinthians 10:13}
• "Then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment," {2 Peter 2:9}

God has not left us helpless against the enemy's onslaught. We can defend ourselves and defeat him, but we must fight the battle. Each day, we engage in the war between the flesh and spirit. The one that gains control will be the one to which we submit. Satan cannot be victorious without our help. Sin is born only when we yield to temptation, and we know that sin separates us from God. Trust God and pursue the better course!