DON’T TAKE THE BAIT
Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
~ Matthew 26:41 KJV
Bait is often used by hunters or fishermen to attract their prey to a hook or trap and lure them in for a catch. Being consistent in prayer strengthens your spirit, making you more resistant to the urges and temptations that are thrown your way to reel you in for the catch. When you are not prayed up, however, your flesh is liable to cause you to fall into temptation and easily become a victim of the enemy’s bait.
In Genesis Chapter 25, Esau had been out in the field hunting all day. When he returned home, he found his younger brother Jacob cooking some pottage. Exhausted and famished after his hard work, Esau begged Jacob for some of the pottage. Sensing an opportunity, Jacob exploited Esau's weakened state and agreed to give him the pottage in exchange for Esau's birthright.
The birthright, granted to the family's firstborn son, provided a double portion of the father's inheritance and leadership authority upon his absence or death. Esau, yielding to the temptations of his flesh, submitted to Jacob's bribe, took the bait, sold his birthright, and forfeited his blessings.
Jacob knew Esau’s daily routine, just as the devil or “your Pharaoh” knows yours. They will always use some sort of exchange or bribery to cause you to fall into the desires of your flesh. Their attacks are not sudden; they are well thought out and planned. They study you and strike during your weakest and most vulnerable times.
During these times of temptation, when the enemy is seeking to tempt you and cause you to forfeit or sacrifice your blessing, your life, your family, or your salvation, the Bible says to be sober, clear-headed, and vigilant; attentive to the enemy’s schemes so that you won’t fall victim to them (1 Peter 5:8).
It is crucial to be mindful of your surroundings and the company you keep because, as 1 Corinthians 15:33 reminds us, "evil company corrupts good habits." You might enter a situation with the best intentions, but the influence of those around you can easily lead you astray. Before you know it, you might find yourself doing the very things you promised yourself and those that are rooting for you, that you wouldn't do.
Remember, if you resist the devil, he will flee from you. But if you entertain him, you open the door for him to take up residence in your life. There's no need for him to break in if you keep letting him in willingly. Stay strong and be equipped. Prayer is your greatest weapon. Pray your way through those temptations and give the enemy no place. Block those phone calls and messages, and avoid places where you know you'll encounter temptation.
You've come too far to take the bait and risk losing something that could change your life forever; all for a moment of pleasure. Stay rooted in prayer, stay focused, and stay strong. I'm praying for you and cheering you on. You've got this! Pray Through IT!
