Read John 13:1-2 and James 4:4–8.
Judas betrayed Jesus, he may have been on Jesus’ side before but now he is going against him. Judas was one of Jesus' closest followers but in a moment of weakness the devil prompted Judas to betray Jesus and he gave in. In today's day and age there are many great pastors and ministers who give in to temptation and sin and we hear the scandals that come out. Does it mean that they never believed in Jesus?
No, not at all. Unfortunately it likely means that they, like all of us, were tempted and they gave in to that temptation. Temptation is still around today. When was the last time you were tempted to sin?
James tells us that friendship with the world means enmity against God. In other words friendship with the world leads to temptation which leads you to turn away from God. To resist temptation first submit yourself to God then resist the devil and he will flee from you. The word resist in James could also be translated to “stand up to”. Resist, stand up to the devil and he will flee from you.
We are to stand up to the devil and when you stand in your authority as a believer with God behind you, the devil will flee from you. When you are tempted draw near to God, and when you do so he will draw near to you and join you in defending yourself from temptation.
Judas gave in to temptation. We are all tempted to sin. The devil and his minions are coming against us at all times trying to take away the effectiveness of our lives and ministry. When you are tempted, draw near to God, stand up to the devil, and when you do so the devil will flee and you can overcome your temptations.
If you know that certain things lead you to sin more often choose to avoid them. If you’re an alcoholic it's a lot harder to say no to a drink at a bar then it is at home where there is no booze. Learn what your temptations are and when and where you are more likely to give in to them and avoid them if you can and if you cannot avoid them, spend time in prayer and worship beforehand and if you’re able during as well. When you are tempted, draw near to God and resist the devil. He will flee from you.
