Thomas Watson

Satan, in tempting, observes the flow of our temperament and constitution at a given time. He makes the wind and the tide go together. Whichever way the natural tide of the heart is running, that is the way that the winds of his temptation will blow.

Satan tempts to evil at times by them that are good; thus he gives poison in a golden cup. He tempted Christ by Peter. Peter would dissuade Him from suffering: “Master, pity Thyself.” Who would have thought to have found the tempter in the mouth of an apostle.

If Adam in a few hours sinned himself out of Paradise, how soon would we sin ourselves into hell, if we were not kept by a greater power than our own! But God puts underneath us His everlasting arms.

Christian, canst thou not believe that evil which is in thine heart, and which will break forth suddenly, if God should leave you? If God leaves a man to himself, how suddenly and scandalously may sin break forth in the holiest of men on the earth.

“I say unto all, ‘Watch!’” A wandering heart needs a watchful eye.

If you would not be overcome by temptation, be humble in your own eyes. They are nearest falling who presume on their own strength. “The doves,” says Pliny, “take pride in their high flying, till at last they fly high in pride and self-confidence they become a prey to the tempter.”

Satan doth not tempt God’s children because they have sin in them, but because they have grace in them. Had they no grace he would not disturb them, for where he keeps possession, all his goods are at peace. A thief will not assault an empty house; but where he thinks there is a treasure, there he will strike. Though to be tempted is a trouble, yet to think WHY you are tempted is a great comfort.

Thomas Watson, courtesy of Wicket Gate.