The tempter came and said to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.’ But he answered, ‘It is written,
Matthew 4:3-4
“One does not live by bread alone,
but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” ’
By Charla Riggs
During my sophomore year of college, I worked as and aide to a Biology professor in order to help with my tuition. One of my assigned jobs was to monitor and grade exams. During an exam session, I noticed a handsome guy taking the test. As he turned in his test, he was talkative and friendly. My ego kicked in and I began imagining he wanted to ask me on a date. As I graded, I paid particular attention to his test and discovered his answers were identical to the student sitting next to him. Suddenly I had a dilemma, did I let my suspicions go as I was tempted to do or inform the professor? I wasn’t starving after a long fast as Jesus was, but temptation led me to look the other way. I debated with God most of the weekend. I needed to be responsible and keep my job. I also wanted to make a good impression on the cute guy. Deep down I knew taking the right path was more important than a date or job security. I chose to speak with the professor. I might never have heard from the friendly guy, but I knew for certain I wouldn’t after my decision! I was sad but remember feeling at peace, knowing that a “maybe date” wasn’t worth taking a path leading in a direction God wouldn’t want me to go.
As the years passed, I have been given more temptations and have not always taken the necessary step of talking to God about my decisions. As a result I have gotten into some less than desirable situations which did not bring peace. I continue to learn that I cannot live by bread alone, but must listen for God’s guidance in order to move beyond fleeting desires.