Advertisers often make self-indulgence a part of their marketing strategies. We want to drive this vehicle, wear these shoes, or carry this credit card now. In recent years, instant gratification has become more than just a tactic to appeal to us; it has become a reality. The Internet has redefined shopping. Media like books and music can be downloaded and enjoyed immediately. Online purchases can often be delivered the next day—and in some areas, you can receive your order the same day. Instant gratification has become far more instant!

From the beginning, Satan has used instant gratification to entice us. He used it with Adam and Eve (Gen. 3), he tried it on Jesus, and he’ll try it on us. Use spiritual discernment to see these tactics for what they are; tricks packaged as treats.”

Advertisers were not the first to use this strategy. From the beginning, Satan has used instant gratification to entice us. He used it with Adam and Eve (Gen. 3), he tried it on Jesus, and he’ll try it on us. Use spiritual discernment to see these tactics for what they are; tricks packaged as treats. Further, as we look at how Satan made cunning attempts with Jesus and study Jesus’s responses, we can learn to trust God and what He provides rather than fall for the “okey-doke” to gratify ourselves.