How to Resist Temptation

You have likely heard the John Maxwell quote, “Leadership is influence.” However, influence goes both ways. Just as you could have influence over someone else, someone else could also influence you. 

As leaders, we not only need to be aware of who we have influence over, but we also need to be aware of what influences us. Whatever we let influence us, is what we let lead us. 

When we look at the leadership of Jesus, we see He was influenced by Scripture. An example of this is when He was tempted in the desert (Matthew 4:1-11; Mark 1:12-13; Luke 4:1-13). During these 40 days, Jesus was tempted by Satan. 

1 John 2:16 explains that all temptations and sins can be put into three categories. It reads, “For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions” (NLT). Essentially, we can be tempted by three things. I call these the three f’s: flesh, fortune, and fame. When we give in to temptation, we are choosing to be led by the things of this world. 

During Jesus’ time in the desert, He was tempted by these three things. However, instead of being influenced by His flesh, fortune, and fame, He chose instead to be influenced by God’s Word.

The first temptation Jesus faced was flesh. Flesh is when we let our physical desire influence us. Knowing that Jesus had not eaten in 40 days, Satan used food to tempt Jesus. Quoting from Deuteronomy  8:3, Jesus responded, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone’” (NIV).

The second temptation Jesus faced was fortune. Fortune is when we let material things influence us. Satan showed Jesus the many kingdoms of the world and said, “If you worship me, it will all be yours” (NIV, Luke 4:7). Quoting from Deuteronomy 6:13, Jesus responded, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only’” (NIV).

The third and final temptation of Jesus was fame. Fame is when we let success influence us. Satan used the people at the temple to tempt Jesus. Quoting from Deuteronomy 6:16, Jesus responded, “It is also written: ‘It is said: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” (NIV).

As Christian leaders, we will face the same temptations as Jesus. We will be tempted by flesh, fortune, and fame. During these times we can choose to be influenced by Scripture. When we are influenced by Scripture, we are not only being better leaders for ourselves, but also for those that we lead. 

Think about it: When Jesus was tempted, He quoted a Scripture to counter the temptation. What scriptures come to mind that could help you face temptations of the flesh, fortune, and fame? If none come to mind, look some up and commit them to memory so that you can use them when needed.

A Leader Worth Imitating, Principle 5: Scripture