TEMPTATION

By Charles H. Spurgeon

'Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness
to be tempted of the devil.'­ Matthew 4:1

   A Holy character does not avert temptation­Jesus was tempted.  When Satan
tempts us, his sparks fall upon tinder; but in Christ's case, it was like striking
sparks on water; yet the enemy continued his evil work.  Now, if the devil goes
on striking when there is no result, how much more will he do it when he knows
what inflammable stuff our hearts are made of.

   Though you become greatly sanctified by the Holy Ghost, expect that the great
dog of hell will bark at you still.  In the haunts of men we expect to be tempted,
but even seclusion will not guard us from the same trial.  Jesus Christ was led
away from human society into the wilderness, and was tempted of the devil.
Solitude has its charms and its benefits, and may be useful in checking the lust
of the eye and the pride of life; but the devil will follow us into the most lovely
retreats.

   Do not suppose that it is only the worldly-minded who have dreadful thoughts
and blasphemous temptations, for even spiritual-minded persons endure the same;
and in the holiest position we may suffer the darkest temptation.  The utmost
consecration of spirit will not insure you against Satanic temptation.  Christ was
consecrated through and through.  It was His meat and drink to do the will of Him
that sent Him: and yet He was tempted!  Your hearts may glow with a seraphic
flame of love to Jesus, and yet the devil will try to bring you down to Laodicean
lukewarmness.

   If you will tell me when God permits a Christian to lay aside his armour, I will tell
you when Satan has left off temptation.  Like the old knights in war time, we must
sleep with helmet and breastplate buckled on, for the arch-deceiver will seize our
first unguarded hour to make us his prey.  The Lord keep us watchful in all seasons,
and give us a final escape from the jaw of the lion and the paw of the bear.
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Yours in Christ,
Paul N. F.