Resisting Temptation

Temptation is something all Christians face, no matter how long we have been following Christ. But there are a few practical things we can do to grow stronger and smarter in our struggle against sin. We can learn how to overcome temptation by practicing these important steps.

James 1:14 explains that we are tempted when we become enticed by our own natural desires. “…but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” 

The first step toward overcoming temptation is to recognize the human tendency to be seduced by our own fleshly desires.  The temptation to sin is a given, so don't be surprised by it.  Expect to be tempted daily, and be prepared for it.  1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.”

Remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful.  He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it.  When you are tempted, He will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it.  When you come face to face with temptation, look for the way out, the way of escape that God has promised. Then flee! Run as fast as you can!

Did you know you can carry a weapon that will make your thoughts obey Jesus?  Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”  This weapon is the Word of God.  Jesus overcame the devil's temptations in the wilderness with the Word of God.  If it worked for Him, it will work for us.  And because Jesus was fully human, He is able to identify with our struggles and give us the exact help we need to resist temptation. 

While it can be helpful to read God's Word when you're being tempted, sometimes that's not practical. Even better is to not only read the Bible daily, but memorize it so that eventually you are ready whenever temptation comes.  If you are reading through the Bible regularly, you will have the full counsel of God at your disposal.  You will start to have the mind of Christ.  So when temptation comes knocking, all you'll have to do is draw your weapon, aim, and fire.

How often have you been tempted to sin when your heart and mind were fully concentrated on worshiping the Lord?  I'm guessing your answer is never.  Praising God takes our focus off of self and puts it on God.  You may not be strong enough to resist temptation on your own, but as you focus on God, He will inhabit your praises.   He will give you the strength to resist and walk away from the temptation.

Having a more realistic view, knowing that at times you will fail, should help you to repent quickly when you do fall.  Failing is not the end of the world, but it is dangerous to persist in your sin. 

Going back to James 1, verse 15 we are told that, "When it is full-grown, gives birth to death." Continuing in sin leads to spiritual death, and often even physical death.  That is why it's best to repent quickly when you know you've fallen into sin.  Some additional ways to avoid temptation is to:

1) Pray for the help of the Holy Spirit in dealing with temptation.

2) Choose a Bible Reading Plan.

3) Develop a Christian friendship, someone to call when you're feeling tempted.

Temptations comes to all of us on a daily basis but God promises to give you the strength to overcome them.  Ask the Lord today to give you discernment so that you can avoid the enemy's pitfalls.  God has called you to a life of victory—don’t let anything stand in your way!