A method used by Satan is to simply present the golden cup but keep the poison in it undisclosed or to present the bait and hide the hook. The focus is on captivating the mind by presenting that which is alluring and pleasant to the senses or the mind. The bait is that which appears pleasant, and the thought of experiencing the fulfillment of the desire is what makes it a temptation. The mind may study the profitability of yielding to it. The profit is measured highly by the carnal mind. To the spiritual, he or she cannot hide from the displeasure it would create for God and the wrath and misery that will be experienced.
This device was Satan’s choice offered to Adam and Eve in the garden (Gen.3: 4-5) “And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: for God doth know, that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened; and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.’ Here is the bait that is pleasurable, profitable, and alluring. But, he hides the hook — the same, God’s wrath and the loss that would follow.