Trampling Temptation - Week of 4/12/10

We are all faced with temptation. Everyday of our lives we make choices that will affect whether we give in to or trample temptation.

The first thing that happens when we are confronted with temptation is a thought or a series of thoughts enter our minds, beckoning us to take action! This is where the real battle begins. Here is where we must bring "...every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ..." 2Cor 10:5. The Bible teaches us that we have the ability to control our thoughts (subsequently, our actions). As if not to leave us stranded there, God has also prepared an escape plan for us. Again the apostle Paul in 1Cor 10:13 reminds us, "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 will be able to bear it." So you see God always gives us a way out of it. We cannot use the excuse 'I just couldn't help it'.

Although God has put things in place for us we also bear responsibility in this. Jesus gives us a secret to avoiding temptation in Mark 14:38, "Watch and pray lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing but the flesh is weak." First we must watch. That is we have to be vigilant and not allow ourselves to be caught in tempting situations (if we can help it). Secondly He said to pray. Our prayer lives must be strong and consistent because we gain power when we spend time with God.

Finally friends, did you know that temptation is necessary to complete God's perfect work in us? Here's what James says in chapter one starting at verse two, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into diverse (various) temptations, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing."

The bottom line is that God has already anticipated every confrontation we will ever have with temptation. That's why He has given us the escape plan called the Bible with the ability to trample temptation. But remember, God cannot bless us and give us victory if we choose to disobey what His word instructs us to do.

If you find yourself battling with temptation please pray this prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, I surrender my life and my struggle to you. I have been unsuccessful in trying to do this myself so please take over and give me your strength to beat this once and for all! I acknowledge that your Son Jesus Christ died and took my sins so that I don't have to live this way. Today I exchange my life for your new life. From this day I will pray, read and obey your word. Thank you for a new beginning. Amen.

If you prayed that prayer please drop me a line to let me know so that we can continue to pray for you. We love you.God Bless.