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move them to take an objectionable course, others will follow their ex-
ample. But those who are continually learning in the school of Christ
will be able to pursue the even tenor of their way, and Satan’s efforts
to throw them off their balance will be signally defeated. Temptation
is not sin. Jesus was holy and pure; yet He was tempted in all points
as we are, but with a strength and power that man will never be called
upon to endure. In His successful resistance He has left us a bright
example, that we should follow His steps. If we are self-confident or
self-righteous we shall be left to fall under the power of temptation;
but if we look to Jesus and trust in Him we call to our aid a power that
has conquered the foe on the field of battle, and with every temptation
He will make a way of escape. When Satan comes in like a flood, we
must meet his temptations with the sword of the Spirit, and Jesus will
be our helper and will lift up for us a standard against him. The father
of lies quakes and trembles when the truth of God, in burning power,
is thrown in his face.
Satan makes every effort to lead people away from God; and he is
successful in his purpose when the religious life is drowned in business
cares, when he can so absorb their minds in business that they will not
take time to read their Bibles, to pray in secret, and to keep the offering
of praise and thanksgiving burning on the altar of sacrifice morning and
evening. How few realize the wiles of the archdeceiver! how many
are ignorant of his devices! When our brethren voluntarily absent
themselves from religious meetings, when God is not thought of and
reverenced, when He is not chosen as their counselor and their strong
tower of defense, how soon secular thoughts and wicked unbelief
come in, and vain confidence and philosophy take the place of humble,
trusting faith. Often temptations are cherished as the voice of the True
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Shepherd because men have separated themselves from Jesus. They
cannot be safe a moment unless right principles are cherished in the
heart and carried into every business transaction.
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all
men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” Such a
promise is of more value than gold or silver. If with a humble heart
you seek divine guidance in every trouble and perplexity, His word
is pledged that a gracious answer will be given you. And His word
can never fail. Heaven and earth may pass away, but His word will
never pass away. Trust in the Lord, and you will never be confounded