The Turmoil of Temptation

Hebrews 2:18 (ESV)
For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

Do you ever take lightly how much Jesus suffered when He was tempted? When we are tempted we are generally given two choices: 1) Trust in Jesus to overcome or escape the temptation (or) 2) Succumb to the temptation. Jesus had two choices too: 1) Follow the Father’s will (obey) (or) 2) Put His will first (disobey).

The choices are similar… but Jesus was not given a way of escape; if Jesus put His will first then there would be no redemption. Jesus understood and knew the consequences of His actions. He knew what He would have to face. Though Jesus was God, He was still man. Because He was man He suffered through temptation like we do (Hebrews 2:18; 4:15).

How do we act on this knowledge? Hebrews 4:16 leads us in this: “Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time.” (HCSB) Jesus suffered that we might have grace. Jesus suffered that we may find help during temptation.

Jesus understands what you are going through. Jesus overcame what you are going through. Jesus will get you through. If He can save you from wrath and reconcile you with Almighty God, be sure that He can guide you safely through any temptation that comes your way.