A Blog by Josh Agerton

Reframing Temptations

Posted on 05. Mar, 2009 by Josh Agerton in Formation

Temptations.  We face them every day and they look different for each of us.  But I would say in general that each of us wish that we did not have to face them.  imagine how great our life would be if we did not face any temptations at all.  But that’s just not the way it is.  We live in a world where temptations are at every corner.  And then we even have internal temptations of the heart to deal with…things like greed, lust, envy, anger the temptation to be great, etc.

I came across these words in the Asbury Spring Reader that give a little different slant on how we view temptations.  Check it out:

It was in order to teach us that Jesus both did and underwent all things.  He endures even being led into the wilderness, and wrestling against the devil, so that each of us who are baptized-who after our baptism must endure greater temptations-may not be troubled thinking this was unexpected.  Instead, we must continue to nobly endure it all; it’s the natural course of things.

Yes, of course-for you didn’t take up arms to be idle, but to fight!  For these reasons God does not hinder temptations as they come on:

1. To teach you how strong you have indeed become;
2. To keep you modest, not thinking your gifts make you extra-special;
3. To prove that the wicked devil, who things he might draw you back, that you have indeed forsaken and abandoned him;
4. That you may be even stronger, and better tempered than steel;
5. that you may obtain a clear demonstration of the treasures you’re entrusted with. For the devil wouldn’t bother assailing you except that he’s seen you brought to greater honor by God.

St. John Chrysostom (347-407, Homolies on Matthew 13.1

What would we miss out on if we didn’t face any temptations?  What if the very struggle we want to end is the very thing God is using to shape and form us into more of what he desires…more into the image of Christ?  Our journey of becoming like Christ is often messy.  It’s not always pretty with 6am devotions and prayer walks in the garden.

What do you think about this?

Tags: Asbury, Christ, Temptations