My God is BIGGER than THAT!

Liar. Evil one. Father of Lies. Tempter. Thief. Accuser. Beast. Deceiver. Adversary. Enemy. Murderer. Lawless One. Ruler of Demons. Wicked One.

All of the above are names are those of someone who we are warned about by using a lion as a comparison (and FYI--the above list doesn't even compare to how many names the devil has in the Bible--I counted at least 40 and I know there are more).

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. (1 Peter 5:8)

Temptation---It is all something have to overcome. But, YOU CAN! God is stronger!

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Wilson taught a lesson in June 2009 of 7 Stages of Temptation. What great advice! I keep it right in the front of my journal so it is there for me to refer back to whenever I need it!

1. Overconfidence (Mark 14:27-31) We are most vulnerable where we consider ourselves the strongest (Prov 11:2; 16:18)

2. Prayerlessness (Mark 14:32-38) Prayer is a powerful defense because it is a declaration of dependence upon God, renounces fleshly pride and self-suffering, and sets our eyes upon God!

3. Misguided zeal (Mark 14:43-47) What motivates you spiritually?

4. Distance (Mark 14:50, 54a) Feeling unappreciated, some think prayers are unanswered or God has let us down.

5. Fellowship with the world (Mark 14:66-70) Make sure you choose your friends wisely (1 Cor 15:33) because wrong associations WILL cause you grief!

6. Pleasure (Mark 14:71-72)

7. Bitter Denial (Mark 14:72)

Don't get caught up in it...because the Devil is powerful...look again at all those descriptions. But you know what...GOD IS BIGGER THAN THAT!!

James 1:12-16 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin; when it is full-grown , brings forth death. Do not be deceived my beloved brethren.