JANUARY 19 - Don't Trade Truth for Temptation
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 5; Matthew 16
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“Keep your way far from her, and do not go near the door of her house.” — Proverbs 5:8
“But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” — Matthew 16:15–16
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There’s always that one shortcut that promises an easier way: cheat on the test, lie to your parents, flirt with someone you know isn’t good for you. Temptation always advertises itself as exciting, harmless, and even smart. But Proverbs 5 paints a clear warning: don’t even go near the door. That “shortcut” can cost way more than you think. Meanwhile, in Matthew 16, Jesus asks a bold question: “Who do you say I am?” Peter’s answer is powerful because when we know Jesus for who He truly is, we start to recognize truth from lies. Every temptation becomes a test of who we believe Jesus is—and if He’s really worth following with our whole life.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Don't Flirt with the Door: Proverbs 5 doesn’t just say “don’t sin”—it says stay far away. What "doors" in your life are you standing too close to, thinking you won’t get pulled in?
2. Your Answer Matters: Jesus asked His disciples who they believed He was. Your answer shapes every decision you make. Do you believe Jesus is just a teacher, or is He truly your Savior and Lord?
3. What Are You Really Gaining? Later in Matthew 16, Jesus asks, “What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” When you’re tempted to compromise, ask yourself: is this worth trading peace, purpose, or your relationship with God?
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BOTTOM LINE
Temptation always overpromises and underdelivers—Jesus never does.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me enough to warn me when danger is close. Help me recognize the traps of temptation and give me strength to walk away, even when it’s hard. I want to follow Jesus with my whole heart and trust that what He offers is better than anything the world could ever give me. Teach me to stay far from anything that pulls me away from You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
