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In more than three decades of my Christian life, I have been blest by 2 types of Daily devos'
(matter not exceeding 500 words) in universal Christian literature. Not only those Devos'
which have a different theme everyday but also the ones which revolve around a certain
theme over a period of time, say a fortnight, have richly edified me. In fact, both
styles have their own inherent advantages. If the former style caters to the varying
spiritual needs of a christian from day-to-day, the latter aims 'to ground'
a child of God in a certain subject in order he derives the full benefits of the
deep insightful study of a certain topic, spread over a fixed span of time.
In my Daily devo page, I have consciously tried to go in for 'a blend of both the
styles' whereby within a constant theme, I would be aiming to focus on different
facets of it which admittedly is a closer imitation of the 'Constant theme' style
than the 'Varying topics' one.
Having dwelt on the topic of Christian journey and the “Conquest of Canaan”
in the previous months, now in the month of March, considering that
we are in the season of Lent, I intend to focus on the subject- “Lent season”.
Once again, let me wish you a happy and an edifying read…
Suresh Manoharan
14th Lent Day
To curb the temptation during temptation
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the
world and their splendor. "All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me."
Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.-
Matt 4:8-10
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While continuing to reflect on the temptations Satan brought upon Jesus, it’s pertinent to note not
only the poise and composure of our Lord whilst facing them but also the words, he employed-from scripture
and outside of it. Even when confronted with most obnoxious of temptations (the III one), the Lord at best
commanded the tempter to go away. NEVER DID HE CURSE OR DAMN THE DECEIVER!
It is only the misguided ones’ who use derogatory language to condemn the Evil one. Consider what
Jude has to say about such an attitude, which is not approved by the Bible
In the very same way, these dreamers pollute their own bodies, reject authority and slander celestial beings.
But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not dare to
bring a slanderous accusation against him, but said, "The Lord rebuke you!” Yet these men speak abusively
against whatever they do not understand; and what things they do understand by instinct, like unreasoning
animals—these are the very things that destroy them
(Jude: 8-10).
The temptation to ward off the tempter using vile language should always be curbed,
for the Biblical mandate on how to deal with the Evil one is very clear in the scriptures
(also see II Peter 2:10-12). Yes, all ways of Satan are contemptible but the Almighty alone has
the right to condemn him, meanwhile it would serve us well to “tighten the belts” around whatever
inner urge there may be, to get even with him using earthly ways.
Prayer:
Father, again it’s our prayer to enable us to face the temptations in the way your Son did –by quoting the
scriptures and desisting all ways, which are not approved by Thee. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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