Overcoming Temptation 1-2-3

 Have you in the past, or even now, struggled with a temptation in your life?

Relevant Verse: So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!  No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. 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 endure it.  I Corinthians 10:12-13

What is “temptation” for the purposes of this blog: thoughts that can lead to actions that run counter to God’s plan for productive and peaceful living. Giving into temptation is a choice and requires God’s power to resist.  We’ve all been there.

The Israelites continually were tempted and then did “what was right in their own eyes.” God sent judges, like Gideon, Ehud (left handed like me) and Deborah, to “show them the way out.” But over and over the Israelites gave in to their temptations and sin.

The first step to fulfilling the temptation, or resisting it, always begins with our thought process. There are times when we have days to confront the temptation (should I cheat on my taxes) and at other times we have a few minutes (the formerly addicted drinker at a party – “that beer sure looks good”).  God has an answer for both.

In my mentoring, the saddest temptation I encounter is: “I quit, there is no hope in my situation.” God is never fooled by our temptation—He has seen it all. I am pleased to say, I have seen scores of men, women and couples find the way out by following these three statements:

• Key Statement 1: I am believing that God has an answer for my temptation (faith)
• Key Statement 2: I am willing to process multiple options including God’s (trust)
• Key Statement 3: I am willing to listen to God, pray, seek counsel and resist (obedience)

Having done our part, God can start pointing us in the right direction, as we become a conduit of His power. Fred had lost his job at the age of 50. It had been months of no work and his “I quit” temptation had become imbedded. His wife and children were depressed too. With the help, guidance and support of men in the church, and application of the 3 statements, a job in an unrelated field became available (a miracle), which led in time to another position in his area of passion. Each victory on the way out, was a gift from God. Have a great day.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding . In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:4-5