s not agree with the written word of God does not come
from him, for he "cannot deny himself."

Satan manages temptation with the greatest subtlety. He asks so little
at first, that, unless our consciences are very tender, we do not
suspect him. If he can persuade us to parley, he perhaps leaves us for
a while, and returns again, with a fresh and more vigorous attack. He is
exceedingly persevering; and, if he can persuade us to give place to him
at all, he is sure to overcome us at last.

We are also liable to temptation from the world without, and from the
corruptions of our own hearts within. "They that will be rich fall into
temptation and a snare." The riches, honors, pleasures, and fashions, of
this world, are great enemies to serious piety. "Every man is tempted
when he is drawn away of his own lusts and enticed." Remaining
corruption is the sorest evil that besets the Christian. The temptations
of Satan alone would be light, in comparison with the inward conflict he
is compelled to maintain against the lusts of his own heart. But the
devil makes use of both these sources of temptation to accomplish his
ends. The former he uses as outward enticements, and the latter act as
traitors within. Thus you may generally find a secret alliance between
the arch deceiver and the corruptions of your own heart. It is not sin
to be tempted: but it is sin to give place to temptation. "Neither give
place to the devil."

The heart is very properly compared to a castle or fort. Before
conversion it is in the possession of the great enemy of souls, who has
fortified himself there, and secured the allegiance of all our moral
powers. But when Jesus enters in, he "binds the strong man armed," and
takes possession of the heart himself. Yet Satan, though in a measure
bound, loses no opportunity to attempt regaining his lost dominion.
Hence we are directed to "keep the heart _with all diligence_." Now we
know how a castle, fort, or city, is kept in time of war. The first
thing done is to _set a watch_, whose business is to keep constantly on
the look out, this way and that way, to see that no enemy is approaching
from without, and no traitor is lurking within. Hence we are so
frequently exhorted to _watch_. "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into
temptation." "Take heed, watch and pray; for ye know not when the time
is." "And what I say unto you, I say unto all, Watch." "Watch ye, stand
fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong."