The Nature Of Temptation (Part 2)

In my first post I established from scripture that temptation is common to all men and that the nature of temptations is ultimately to deceive you and cause you to do wrong.  We've also established that temptation is built on fantasy or imagination and there is an attraction to it, or else we wouldn't be drawn to it.  Remember, temptation itself is not a sin, but sin will occur if we continually dwell upon the temptation, because we will eventually act on it.  Tweet This  In dealing with temptation, if it's not handled properly at the onset of the temptation, there will be a point of "no return." And according to James 1:12-15, the temptation will be conceived in your heart and it is at that point where you will eventually "give birth" to what you are being tempted with.  So remember, don't dwell on the temptation, but nip it in the bud immediately!

How To Build A Defense Against Temptation

1. Remember there is divine control.  Don't discount God's ability to help you and give you the strength and courage to overcome the temptation.
2. Determine to resist in the power of the Holy Spirit.  You aren't powerful enough in your own strength.  But relying on the power of the Holy Spirit you can overcome the temptation.
3. Focus on the big picture.  Ask yourself:
• Is this thought a specific violation of God's Word?
• What are the consequences if I yield to this thought?
• Am I prepared to pay the price for yielding to this temptation?
4. Identify other areas in your life that you know are areas of weakness and be aware of the "moments and times" you are the weakest.
5. Make yourself accountable to another person you can trust.
6. Read the Word of God daily as an anchor and make note of passages that will help you in your weak areas.
7. Put on the "Armor of God" daily.
8. Affirm the power of the Holy Spirit in your life.
9. Stop making excuses and call the temptation what it is.
10. Be aware of the cycle of giving in to temptation, the guilt and shame, and the promise to do better.
11. Know that you can break this cycle.

How Can We Respond Wisely To Temptation

1. Focus on the big picture. As you focus on the big picture you should consider how yielding to a particular desire will affect your health, finances relationships, and God's plans for you.
2. Recall 1 Corinthians 10:13.  God is faithful [and] will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape.  Claim this promise when temptation strikes.
3. Rely on the power of the Holy Spirit.  As a born-again child of God, you have the awesome power of the Holy Spirit to reset your thinking, change your attitude, and enable you to say no. (John 14:15-16)
4. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on the earth (Colossians 3:2). In other words, determine to live a victorious Christian life and not focus on desires that will draw you away from God. (1 John 2:15-17)
5. Identify areas of weakness.  When you and I know our limitations, we can be more sensitive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in that area.
6. Build a defense by reading God's Word. Study the Bible and ask the Lord to build spiritual principles into your life as a protection against temptation. Don't reason with Satan; speak biblical truth, following Christ's example. (Luke 4:1-2)

Apart from God's help, you will never be able to find genuine freedom from sin. Start today, putting into practice the principles that will give you freedom from sin and power over temptation.  

-- Pastor Temple