Yield Not to Temptation

Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? ‘

(Acts 5:3)

In the last three days, we have been discussing Ananias and Sapphira, focusing mainly on what could have led them to act deceitfully and, by extension, bring God’s judgement upon themselves.

Today, however, I’d like us to consider what they could have done differently. 

No doubt, Ananias and Sapphira’s actions were driven by various weaknesses, including pride, comparison, and their love of money. They desired recognition and approval from others, leading them to fabricate a false image of generosity while concealing their selfish motives. However, their failure to address these weaknesses was what actually left them vulnerable to the schemes of the enemy, resulting in devastating consequences.

As believers, we are not immune to weaknesses or sinful inclinations. The Apostle James warns us in James 1:13-15 that temptation arises when we are enticed by our own desires, and if not addressed, it can lead to sin and death. Therefore, it is crucial that we acknowledge and confront our weaknesses with the help of God’s grace and power.

Instead of ignoring or indulging our weaknesses, we must actively seek God’s strength to overcome them. Philippians 4:13 assures us that “we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.” Through prayer, reliance on God’s Word, and the support of fellow believers, we can resist temptation and live victorious lives in Christ.

We must also be vigilant and discerning, recognizing when the enemy seeks to exploit our weaknesses for his destructive purposes. Ephesians 6:10-11 exhorts us to “be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power” and to “put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

Let us not allow our weaknesses to dictate our actions or lead us astray. Instead, let us surrender them to God and allow His strength to be made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). By relying on His grace and power, we can overcome every obstacle and live lives that honour and glorify Him.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your grace that is sufficient for me in my weakness. Help me to confront and overcome every sinful tendency and weakness in my life. Strengthen me by your Spirit and empower me to resist temptation and live victoriously in Christ. Guard my heart and mind from the schemes of the enemy, and lead me in the path of righteousness. In Jesus’ name.