Resisting Temptation

Resisting temptation is a challenge for every single person. Everyone is tempted; and everyone gives into temptation from time to time. James 1:13 tells us "...each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full grown, brings forth death." But we have much comfort in the Bible regarding how to deal with the temptation. Notice 1Corinthians 10:13: "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it."

Jesus was able to deal with temptation and difficulty by going to the Father in prayer. He taught His disciples in Matthew 6 the Lord's Prayer, saying "lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one." And in the garden of Gethsemane, just before His death, He prayed fervently and encouraged His followers to "watch and pray." They didn't do it; they slept, but that is beside the point. Paul taught the Philippians, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." We can take that same attitude in our lives, particularly in resisting temptation.

And finally, we can view temptation as a challenge. James 1:12 says, "Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him." We can overcome.....with God's help! Thanks for reading; see you next week.