We don’t have to be very old before we are tempted to do something we know is wrong. But how can we succeed in overcoming temptation? As people we have a sinful nature that only through the power of the Holy Spirit as God works through us can we be overcomers. Are you struggling with temptation? The Lord would like to help you overcome it.
Achan was Tempted by the Riches of this World
Joshua 7:20 Achan replied, “It is true! I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel. 21 Among the plunder I saw a beautiful robe from Babylon, 200 silver coins, and a bar of gold weighing more than a pound. I wanted them so much that I took them. They are hidden in the ground beneath my tent, with the silver buried deeper than the rest.” [1]
Like Achan we as sinful people can be easily overcome by temptation. Battling temptation is a daily walk. Even the most loyal followers of Christ can be tempted (Heb. 12:1). That is why the Lord’s prayer instructs us to ask God to “lead us not into temptation” (Matt. 6:13).
Be an Overcomer
What are ways of overcoming temptation? The following principles can help you fight and overcome temptation. (List)
- Be honest with God. At the time of temptation, don’t debate the issue. The longer we wrestle with tempting thoughts, the closer we get to committing the sin. Flee from the temptation as soon as you recognize it (2 Tim. 2:22).
- Recognize your enemy. Understand that this is serious business! You are engaged in a battle for your very soul. There is an enemy, the devil, who “prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). This enemy will use any temptation to draw you away from God.
- Resist through Jesus! Go to the Lord and receive mercy and grace in your time of need (Heb. 4:15-16). Remember, you are not alone in your struggle. Satan tries to discourage us through isolation, telling us our temptation is unique. This simply isn’t true. 1 Cor. 10:13 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. [2]
- Give Thanks. In the midst of the struggle, thank God for the opportunity to experience the victory through Him (Rom. 5:1-5). Thank Him for providing a way of escape.[3]
To hear more about overcoming temptation, listen here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/seeking-the-lord-changes-my-life-joshua
[1-2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.