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Have you ever felt the temptation to take revenge? Your work colleague takes the credit for a project you have worked so hard on. Your so-called friend betrays your confidence and spreads lies about you. Your spouse has been unfaithful. Someone has attacked you, mistreated you, ignored you, or socially rejected you. Main Points:1. Revenge is the desire or urge to get even with somebody. To punish or cause harm as an act of retaliation. 2. The idea of revenge is only an illusion. You can never “get even” with anyone. It is impossible to balance the scales of hurt. The only possible way to come out on top is to respond to hurt with a godly attitude and trust that God will settle the account. 3. The people of God do not retaliate. The people of God do not seek vengeance. We do not take revenge into our own hands.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 5:44 – “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Romans 12:19-21 - “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group
In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock tackle one of the hardest parts of growth: what happens when you change…but the people around you don't. If you've gone through deconstruction, started holding your beliefs more loosely, or found yourself living with more nuance, you've probably felt the tension at the dinner table—Do I speak up? Stay quiet? Change the subject? Because the truth is, most of the time the tension isn't even theological… it's relational.They talk honestly about why your growth can feel threatening to others (even when you're not trying to change anyone), the unspoken agreements relationships can be built on, and the three common temptations that show up in this season: shrinking, proving, or withdrawing. From there, they give five practical tools to help you stay connected without losing yourself—how to lead with curiosity, stop managing other people's reactions, and build safe spaces where you don't have to translate your entire journey just to be understood.If you've felt misunderstood, exhausted, or tempted to pull back from the people you love, this one is for you.In this episode:Why the tension isn't theological—it's relationalThe 3 temptations: shrink, prove, withdraw5 practical tools for staying connected while you growWhen distance is wisdom (boundaries, not punishment)Staying grounded in who you're becoming00:00 - Welcome Back + Quick Banter00:45 - Share the Episode + 26 Life Theme (1 John 2:6)01:34 - Recap: Deconstruction, Stuck Seasons, Staying Tender02:20 - Recap: Rebuilding Trust (Brené Brown's BRAVING)02:50 - Recap: Living Without Certainty (The Sin of Certainty)03:22 - Today's Topic: When You Change but Others Don't04:08 - The Real Tension: Family, Friends, and Staying Connected05:08 - When People Speak in Absolutes + You Feel Misunderstood06:17 - Dinner Table Moment: Speak Up, Stay Quiet, or Shift Topics?07:30 - It's Not Theological—It's Relational Risk09:20 - When Your Shift Feels Threatening to Others10:16 - Unspoken Agreements: “We've Always Believed This”11:34 - 3 Temptations: Shrink, Prove, or Withdraw12:15 - Temptation 1: Shrinking to Keep the Room Calm13:16 - Temptation 2: Proving It (Over-explaining, Articles, Debates)14:01 - Temptation 3: Withdrawing Fully (Exhaustion + New Language)16:06 - 5 Practical Tools for Connection (Overview)17:23 - Tool 1: Decide What's Worth Discussing (Hill vs Habit)19:42 - Tool 2: Lead With Curiosity, Not Correction20:36 - Tool 3: Let Go of Being Understood Immediately21:45 - Tool 4: Stop Managing Their Reaction22:20 - Tool 5: Build New Safe Spaces (Relational Oxygen)23:27 - When Distance Is Wise (Boundaries, Not Punishment)24:42 - Stay Grounded in Who You're Becoming27:11 - Next Week: Reconstruction vs Deconstruction (Which Is Harder?)27:44 - Hockey Sidebar: Team USA Beats Canada + “Won It for Johnny”28:37 - Closing: You're Loved (Nothing You Can Do About It)
Temptation is subtle, persistent, convenient and aggressive. Referencing many scriptures it is demonstrated that God Has equipped us, through His word, to combat temptation of the flesh. The Pattern set by Joseph is the illustration . When temptation came he responded fast, he remained faithful and he fled from it. Genesis 39 Watch, Listen and Learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel. ©2026 Pastor Melissa Scott, Ph.D., All Rights Reserved
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“Can a man scoop a flame into his lap and not have his clothes catch on fire? Can he walk on hot coals and not blister his feet?” (Proverbs 6:27–28 NLT) When I was a kid, I was fascinated by fire. This fascination prompted me to do some stupid things, like taking little green army men and lighting their plastic rifles on fire so that I could watch them melt into little green puddles. Once, however, I was doing this on a piece of newspaper, which also caught on fire. So, I grabbed the newspaper with the burning green army men and threw it all into a wastebasket. The wastebasket, unfortunately, was made of bamboo, and it, too, was set ablaze. Thankfully, I was able to put out the fire. That is how sin works. It starts small, and then it grows out of control. That’s what the author of Proverbs 6 was talking about when he wrote, “Can a man scoop a flame into his lap and not have his clothes catch on fire? Can he walk on hot coals and not blister his feet?” (verses 27–28 NLT). Samson learned that lesson the hard way. He thought he could handle sin. He thought he could keep playing the game. But the devil knows how to package his wares. He knows how to sell his stuff. The devil sized up Samson and figured out that he was a he-man with a she weakness. He couldn’t bring Samson down on the battlefield, so he brought him down in the bedroom. And he found a willing accomplice in Samson, who thought he could handle it. Temptation comes in attractive packages, but for temptation to succeed, we must be willing participants. For temptation to work, there must be desire on our part. James 1:14–15 says, “Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death” (NLT). For the devil to succeed, we must listen to him, yield to him, and desire what he is offering. The devil can throw anything at us. He offers different kinds of bait. But it isn’t the bait that constitutes sin. It’s the bite. That’s why Jesus warned, “Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!” (Matthew 26:41 NLT). It’s why Paul wrote, “If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure” (1 Corinthians 10:12–13 NLT). It’s why James advised, “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7 NLT). Temptation can get the better of us only if we choose to play with spiritual fire. Reflection question: How can you thwart temptation in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this message we contrast Genesis 3 with Matthew 4. Adam and Eve show us what not to do, but Jesus shows us what should be done. We explore the temptation of Jesus and what it means to live fully engaged in our faith. Discover how Jesus remained alert to the enemy's schemes, armed with God's Word, and aligned with the Father's will. Learn how to spot spiritual deception, stand firm in truth, and follow Christ with wholehearted obedience.
A homily for the 1st Sunday of Lent Year A 2/22/2026
Joseph's story takes another sharp turn as betrayal gives way to temptation. Rising from slave to trusted servant in Potiphar's house, everything seems to stabilize—until he's pressured to compromise his integrity. In a moment where disappointment could have justified disobedience, Joseph chooses honor over impulse, faithfulness over feeling. Even when doing the right thing lands him in prison instead of promotion, he refuses to sin against God. This part of the story reminds us that adversity often tests not just our endurance, but our character. When life feels unfair, will you still choose obedience?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is a weekday podcast designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.
Dr. Tom Curran and Fr. Patrick Smith, Pastor of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Washington, DC, share insights on The Temptation of Jesus. [Matt 4: 1-11] Fr. Pat and Tom Curran give practical recommendations for how to prepare for prayer and how to read scripture.
Deacon Steve Greco is a permanent deacon of the Diocese of Orange in California; he is the Director of Evangelization and Formation for the Diocese as well. He is also founder and president of Spirit Filled Heart Ministries, which engages in evangelization and support of the foreign missions. He and MaryAnne have been married for over 50 years and have three adult children. They discuss the Mass readings from Sunday mass; in this episode they discuss the readings from the first Sunday in Lent with a focus on spiritual warfare.The Bible and You airs live weekdays at 2:30pm Pacific Time go to spiritfilledevents.com website or download our Spirit Filled Radio App for Android or Apple Devices.Archives of shows from Spirit Filled Radio are available on podcast at spiritfilledevents.com Support the show
Dax’s journey is one of survival, faith, and self-discovery. From nearly not surviving birth to enduring experiences that shaped him, he has created “the abyss” as a way to process life and grow stronger. His work explores the challenges of manhood, the lies men are taught about strength and vulnerability, and the search for love and peace amidst success and loneliness. His new song Temptation dives into inner conflict and the struggle to resist ego, anger, addiction, and lust, showing how faith and determination guide him through life’s hardest seasons. Dax’s story is about confronting your demons, finding your identity, and redefining what it truly means to be a man.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pastor James Roberson III 1 Corinthians 7:6-9; 25–40
Lent is not about good advice to help us do better, but good news that Jesus succeeds where we fail. Jesus was tested as we are—40 days in the wilderness echoing Israel's 40 years—yet he triumphed. Temptation reveals what is truly in us. We cannot excuse our sin as mere humanity, for Jesus shared our humanity without surrendering to sin. The hope of Lent is this: our salvation rests not on the strength of our resolve, but on the sufficiency of our Redeemer.
Homily - 1st Sunday of Lent - Overcome Temptation with Scripture and Silence
Homily for the 1st Sunday of Lent (February 22, 2026) Total Time: 15m39s
Here we talk about unity and division inside the Republic as crises mount. How do worlds come together when their freedoms are threatened? What does unity look like under the stress of war and uncertainty? This episode connects the dots, so listeners feel the weight of the galaxy's turning tides.We hope you enjoy today's show. If you liked the show, please give it a five-star rating on whatever platform you use to consume your content. It really does help. If possible, share it with your friends and family. It would be greatly appreciated. And don't forget to favorite the show. That way, you will be notified every time we release a new episode. As always, thank you for taking the time to listen to this podcast. For people with any questions about the show. Please do not hesitate to email us @swaa.audio@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you. Follow us on our Social Media for more great content.For Merch, Extra Content, and uninterrupted episodes, visit https://www.swaapodcast.com/The story, art, and characters therein are the property of whoever holds the copyright to this material. We do not claim ownership of the source material. This podcast was produced for noncommercial use, to be enjoyed by ourselves, fellow fans, and the original creators as a tribute to Star Wars. Please support the official release.#StarWars #StarWarsPodcast HighRepublic, JediTalk, GalacticJourney, TemptationoftheForce, StarWarsUniverse, TheForceIsStrong, SWAAcast, StarWarsAudiobooks, StarWarsFan, StarWarsCommunity, StarWarsLore, GalaxyFarFarAway, StarWarsStories, StarWarsLegends, JediLife, StarWarsLove, StarWarsSaga, StarWarsGeek, ExploreStarWars,
Pastor Chris kicks off Lent for us this year by unpacking the familiar scene of the Lord Jesus' temptation in the wilderness. Text: Matthew 4:1-11
In DTWOL… Who Is My Neighbor?, this Godcast invites you to step onto the road Jesus describes in Luke 10 and confront the difference between merely existing and truly living. Moving beyond proximity, familiarity, and convenience. The episode reveals how neighbor is defined by compassion in motion and love that acts. Through Scripture and reflection, the Good Samaritan is shown not only as an example to imitate, but as a picture of Jesus Himself—the One who moved toward us when we were fallen, bore the full cost of our rescue, and promised to return. This episode calls disciples out of self-justification and into Spirit-led obedience, where interruptions become divine appointments and everyday roads become holy ground. I pray it blesses your time, and encourages you to imitate Jesus, amen? God's Word: Key verses: Luke 10:25–37; James 1:22–24; Galatians 5:16; Matthew 22:34–40; Matthew 5:17; Ephesians 2:1; Romans 5:8. Colossians 1:13; Additional Scripture references are woven throughout the Godcast and can be gleaned from the full transcript. Amen?Email: walkingtheway3@gmail.com
1st Sunday of LentThe three temptations Christ experienced in the desert by Satan are of similar origin we as human beings face on a daily basis: comfort, spiritual pride, and power. Temptations do not imply sin as the struggle is part of growing in faith. Remember we are all saints in training. Jesus having passed the test in the desert teaches all people that there is hope in the midst of our trials and temptations. Jesus I trust in You.Scripture Readings for February 22, 2026Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7Psalm 51:3-6, 12-13, 17Romans 5:12-19 Matthew 4:1-11
Temptation-What is the Big Deal 2-22-26 by Praise Community Church
In today's episode, we look at what it really means to build a life that stands. In Luke 6:46–49, Jesus confronts the danger of hearing His words without doing them. Then in 1 Corinthians 10:1–14, Paul reminds believers that spiritual privilege does not guarantee spiritual stability. You can have exposure to truth and still fall. You can hear the Word and still collapse. The difference is obedience. This episode is a sobering and encouraging reminder: storms will come—but only what is built on Christ through obedience will endure.
A First Sunday of Lent reflection on Jesus tempted in the desert, inviting conversion of heart through prayer, fasting, repentance, and renewed trust in God. The post The First Sunday of Lent: Temptation, Conversion, and New Life in Christ – Building a Kingdom of Love w/ Msgr. John Esseff Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
Given on the First Sunday of Lent, 2026
A First Sunday of Lent reflection on Jesus tempted in the desert, inviting conversion of heart through prayer, fasting, repentance, and renewed trust in God. The post The First Sunday of Lent: Temptation, Conversion, and New Life in Christ – Building a Kingdom of Love w/ Msgr. John Esseff Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.
In Week Two of our Jesus Is King series, Pastor Dustin unpacks a powerful message titled “The Truth About Temptation.” We begin where we left off last week — at the baptism of Jesus. In Matthew 3:17, the Father declares, “This is My beloved Son…” Before Jesus performed miracles or preached to crowds, His identity was affirmed. But immediately after that moment of public declaration, Matthew 4:1 tells us that Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. Identity is often declared in public, but it is proven in private. In the wilderness, the enemy did not begin by attacking Jesus' strength. He attacked His identity. In Matthew 4:3, Satan says, “If you are the Son of God…” If the enemy can shake your identity, he can shape your behavior. Temptation often starts with questioning who you are and whose you are. Pastor Dustin reminds us that desire itself is real, but it does not define you. After forty days of fasting, Matthew 4:2 says Jesus was hungry. The desire was legitimate. Yet Hebrews 4:15 tells us He was tempted in every way, just as we are, and yet without sin. Desire makes a great servant but a terrible master. The battle of temptation is ultimately decided by the voice you believe. Jesus shows us how to defeat temptation: Fight from identity, not for it. Romans 8:1 declares there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. When you are trying to earn God's love, temptation will always feel stronger than you. But when you stand secure in who you are in Christ, you fight from victory, not for it. Prepare before the battle. Psalm 119:11 says, “Your word I have treasured and stored in my heart, that I may not sin against You.” Jesus did not prepare in the wilderness. He prepared before it. You do not rise to the occasion; you fall to the level of your formation. Name the lie. In John 8:44, Jesus calls Satan the father of lies. When you can identify the lie, you can break its power over your life. Choose obedience over relief. In the wilderness, bread represented immediate relief, but obedience produced lasting freedom. Galatians 5:1 reminds us that Christ has set us free. Freedom comes not from satisfying every desire, but from trusting God in the middle of it. And here is the hope: Hebrews 2:18 tells us that because Jesus suffered when He was tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted. He shared in our humanity, broke the power of the enemy, and freed us from slavery to fear. And 1 John 2:1 reminds us that even when we fall, we have an advocate with the Father — Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. Temptation is real. The battle is intense. But Jesus is King — even in the wilderness.
Pastor Kyle returns to looking at Abraham's life and the choices that he makes. Today, we dive into a “repeat” event in his life and what it tells us about trusting God and how God still takes care of Abraham despite his moral failings. There is much we can learn from this, so listen in.
Fr Chris Borah Genesis 2:4-9, 15-17, 25; 3:1-7Psalm 51:1-12Romans 5:12-21Matthew 4:1-11
Russ Masterson teaches from Matthew 4:1-11
The Temptation of Jesus- Dixon Psalm 32 Matthew 4:1-11
The Temptation of Jesus- Veach Psalm 32 Matthew 4:1-11
February 22, 2026 - Brian Mashburn
Matthew 4:1-11https://www.innerworkforspiritualawakening.net/https://www.theosisbooks.net/"Parable Wisdom: Spiritual Awakening in the Teachings of Jesus" by Theodore J. Nottingham is on Amazon, Kindle, Audible.
February 22, 2026 The Lord Jesus endured three severe temptations as the second Adam who represented us. Through his life of obedience that took him to the cross, he was able to give his people the gift of eternal life. We must rely on his Word, his help to obey God during our time of ... [Read more...]
Temptation is not about appetite. It is about autonomy. Secure yourself. Define yourself. Prove yourself. And Jesus refuses. “I live by what God speaks.” “I serve God alone.” He does not grab. He entrusts. I am convinced that sin, at its root, is trying to save yourself. And forgiveness is God refusing to abandon you when you cannot.
Pisgah Sunday Service - First Sunday In Lent - 2/22/2026 - 10:45 AM First Reading: Genesis 2: 15-17, 3:1-7 Second Reading: Romans 5: 12-19 Gospel: St Matthew 4: 1-11 Prayer List: Bishop Ginny Aebischer Wanda Amick Patsy Caldwell Janette Clamp Charles Dickson Betty Harmon Patricia Harmon Peggy Kubic Eleanor Rawl Mike Rawl Richard Roof Barbara Watson Ricky Whisenant Damian Williams The flowers are given to the Glory of God and in honer of February birthdays; in memory of my dad and mom, Boyd and Marjorie Rish by Charles & Frances Harmon.
This message was given by Rev. Mike Cofer at Mission Liberty Hill Lutheran Church in Liberty Hill, Texas.
At the beginning of Lent, we turn to Jesus' forty days in the wilderness. Immediately after his baptism—after the voice from heaven names him “beloved”—Jesus is led into a season of testing. This sermon explores how the temptation narrative is less about spectacle and more about identity: Who is Jesus, and what kind of Messiah will he be? Drawing on Deuteronomy, the Exodus story, and Philippians 2, we consider how Jesus resists coercive power, refuses to exploit divine authority, and chooses the path of humility and love. His responses in the wilderness reveal a Messiah grounded in tradition, shaped by Scripture, and committed to abundant life for others. As we begin our Lenten series Blinded, we reflect on what keeps us from seeing clearly—decision fatigue, cultural pressures, the lure of power, and the noise that drowns out the quieter way of Christ. Like hikers watching for blazes on the trail, we are invited to remember who we are and to act accordingly: beloved people called to walk the path of mercy, humility, and love.
First Sunday of Lent Sermon Series: 40 Days of Growth Sermon: TemptationScripture: Luke 4:1-13Lent begins not in comfort, but in the wilderness. Before Jesus teaches, heals, or calls disciples, he is led into a place of testing. Hungry. Alone. Tempted. In Luke 4:1–13, we see that temptation isn't just about dramatic choices—it's about subtle compromises, shortcuts, and the quiet pull to trust ourselves instead of God.In this Sunday's sermon, “Temptation,” we begin our new series 40 Days of Growth by exploring what it means to face the wilderness honestly. Jesus shows us that temptation often meets us at our weakest points—when we're tired, anxious, or wanting quick relief. Yet he also shows us how to stand firm, grounded in God's Word and God's promises.Join us as we begin the Lenten journey together, learning how even seasons of testing can become seasons of growth.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service
The Gospel Lesson: Matthew 4:1-11Sermon: “The Tempter: Dealing With Temptation”Preaching: Rev. Bill Britt, senior minister The post 02.22.26 | The Tempter: Dealing With Temptation appeared first on Peachtree Road United Methodist Church.
Get all set for the First Sunday of Lent with Father Byrd.SummaryJoin us as we explore the significance of Lent, the meaning of Ash Wednesday, and how to prepare spiritually for Easter. Our discussion covers the history of ashes, fasting rules, and practical tips for a meaningful Lent, all through engaging conversations and personal insights.Takeaways The significance of Ash Wednesday and the distribution of ashes.The biblical and historical origins of ashes and their symbolism.Rules and guidelines for fasting and abstinence during Lent.The spiritual purpose of giving things up and practicing self-denial.Jesus' temptation in the desert and lessons on spiritual warfare.The importance of humility, trust in God's grace, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.Practical tips for a meaningful and transformative Lent.The role of prayer, silence, and detachment in spiritual growth.The connection between Lent and Easter: preparation and renewal.Personal reflections and stories about living out Lent authentically.Chapters03:35 Reflections on Ash Wednesday and Temptation06:45 Understanding the Readings for Lent09:47 The Temptation of Jesus in the Desert12:41 Lessons from Jesus' Temptation15:34 The Role of Pride and Humility in Temptation18:47 The Importance of Grace in Our Lives21:42 Finding Balance Between Humility and Self-Doubt24:38 Cooperation with Grace and Action27:53 The Infinite Nature of God's Grace30:44 Logistical Questions About Lent33:30 Final Thoughts on Lent and Ash Wednesday
This week Joe and Travis discuss Self Love and The Fine Line of Temptation. As always, this episode was brought to you by: Carter Comics - CarterComics.Com - Use the Promo Code "FreakNet" at Check Out to save 10% on your order. & Audible.com - Audibletrial.com/freaknet - Get a 30 Day Free Trial of Audible!!! We Have Merchandise!!!! Check out our merch at www.TeePublic.com by searching "TFS" This Freakin Show is now part of Freak Net Studios!! Discord: Freak Net Studios Facebook: Freak Net Studios Instagram: @freaknetstudios YouTube: Freak Net Studios Follow the Podcast on Social Media: Twitter: @thisfreakinshow Facebook: This Freakin' Show Instagram: @thisfreakinshow Email us: thisfreakinshow@yahoo.com Website: ThisFreakinShow.com Music Provided By: MeTOMicA - Host of Jedi Talk
Mark 1:12-13 Temptation Chris Yum
Have you fallen for this major lie?