Christ’s Authority over Satan

Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. – James 1:13

Today’s verse reminds us that God doesn’t tempt anyone to sin. Whenever you sin, be careful not to blame God. He never tempts us, but He does test us. Understanding the difference between the two can be helpful.

Testing is designed to validate your victory in Christ. Temptation is Satan’s attempt to defeat you spiritually. Ironically, the test and the temptation can be the same event. God can use something—a circumstance, a situation, a problem—that is a test. Yet Satan is using it as a temptation.

Your response to this event can be a testimony to God’s power. Satan works to discredit your testimony and dishonor God. Our heavenly Father wants you to know that your amen on Sunday works on Monday, and Satan wants you to leave the sermon at the church.

Remember, Christ has all authority over Satan, so you can have victory over those struggles each and every time. The next time you feel tempted, turn to God in prayer. Lean on His strength. Fill your heart and mind with His words, psalms, and spiritual songs. Claim the blood of Christ over your situation. Do these things and more as you see God show up in what you once thought was a losing battle.