Today’s Scriptures: “Stay awake and pray that you won’t be tested. You want to do what is right, but you are weak”- Matthew 26:41

There is an old saying that goes; “Opportunity knocks once, but temptation beats on the door every day.” This statement explains the reality of the spirit of temptation; it’s all around us waiting to be admitted into our lives. Temptation is an inner urge to do something which ordinarily is not in tune with our best nature and which on the long run has the tendency to create an unpleasant situation, or lower our spiritual and moral integrity. Although, on the short run, we may feel cool with ourselves in our tempted situation, but on the long run, the situation gradually changes to that of regrets and disappointment. Today, the word of God tells us to fight against temptation in order not to fall prey to the tricks of the devil, which is waiting patiently and subtly to displace us from where God wants us to be. Man lost his glory and forfeited the milk and honey at the Garden of Eden due to his inability to avoid temptation. Temptation displaces people from success; removes Godliness; destroys fortune and diminishes the grace of God. To avoid temptation, use these four keys:

Pray - A daily relationship with God in prayer is a first step to avoiding temptation. Identify your weaknesses and adopt bible verses targeted to combat these areas of temptation in your life.
Flee Temptation – When you recognize you are in a situation of temptation, then flee to safety.
Find someone to pray with you regarding your weaknesses - Your priest, pastor or a fellow Christian would help.
Confess and Repent – God already knows about your sins. Confess to Him and request for forgiveness.

Father in the name of Jesus Christ, I am greatly empowered today by your spirit to escape and walk away from every evil machinations and demonic influences meant to derail me from your plan and purpose. Lord, I take total authority in your word today which lifts me up above every temptation and deluding powers of every demon; therefore, I am not tempted beyond what I can bear. Father, by the blood of Jesus Christ, I loosened myself from every stronghold, and I declare all satanic surprises and evil desires flee from me NOW. Lord, I feed and drink of your word daily, and I am spiritually empowered. Therefore, I declare greater art thou God in me than every ruthless power of darkness and sin present in the world. AMEN.