Uncompromised: How to Withstand Temptations When You're Most VulnerableSample

Temptation #3: Selling Out for Things

This brings us to our final attack–selling out for immediate pleasure. Isn't this another strange one? Jesus, the Son of the highest King, was tempted to bow down to the adversary! That's like a world championship boxer handing his title over to an amateur who's only won fights in his backyard against his little siblings. It's unfathomable! This temptation seemed like a Hail Mary pass–a desperate attempt to try one more thing to see if Jesus would bite. It's completely asinine!... Or is it?

The adversary (aka the god of this world) was offering to give Jesus control of all the kingdoms he could see. (Satan is referred to as the “god of this world” in 2 Corinthians 4:4 to highlight his influence on the ideals, opinions, goals, hopes, and views of the majority of people.) He was attempting his own Mufasa/Simba moment where he offered Jesus "everything the light touches." We would all quickly conclude that of course Jesus would deny the adversary the pleasure of being bowed to and worshiped. In hindsight, we cannot perceive this happening; however, I believe the purpose of this story is to examine the "exchange." The adversary offered to exchange tangible valuables for submission and respect.

How often do we bend, submit, compromise our integrity, and even sacrifice our dignity to accomplish a goal? Isn't it true that sometimes we waive our personal values, integrity, and talent (aka “sellout”) for money and personal gain? We feel the inkling and conviction to do what's right, but we "bow" by claiming that the end result justifies the means.

This temptation is obvious when we picture Jesus bowing down to the devil, but it's not as obvious in our daily lives. It's not obvious when there's a deadline looming over our heads, when we "forget" to study for a test when we don't want to disappoint someone with our actions or words when we want to advance in our individual careers and relationships, or when we're trying to fill a void. These situations (and more) often cause us to compromise what we know to be right in exchange for something we deem valuable.

This last temptation is an excellent example for us. Jesus, the greatest example, made a strong statement as He told the adversary, "Aye get outta here! I'm not compromising my integrity for you or anyone else!" (Obviously paraphrased.) Can you make that same declaration today? Resist the urge to compromise, and send the devil packing!

The story doesn't end with the resistance, and the last part is awesome! It perfectly illustrates God's character and our relationship with Him.

Once again, Jesus found Himself alone after sending the adversary away. That's when God sent Jesus exactly what He needed in that moment–comfort and companionship. God proved that He knows and will provide everything we need when we need it (Philippians 4:19)! That's why we shouldn't sweat when we're vulnerable or obsess over our weak moments because God strengthens and reinforces us at our most vulnerable times (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). We aren't alone when we're tested with temptations and hardships, and we will prevail with God on our side!