Finding Hope in God's Everlasting, Intimate Friendship


Overcoming Temptation

 

How can you conquer temptations?


      1. By reading God's word. Satan's tactics are recorded there. His quiver possesses no darts that have not already been aimed at other Christians before they were aimed at you (1 Corinthians 10:13). You should study so you can say with Paul, We are not ignorant of Satan's devises (2 Corinthians 2:11).Memorize and meditate on Scripture, doctrinal truths, and hymns of the faith. This will help to keep you from temptation. Satan knows the intimacy of 2 Chronicles 15:2: The Lord is with you while you are with Him. While you are in that special place with God, you are most able to resist Satan's fiery darts.


2. Settling this one principle in your heart. It is better to suffer than to fall into the least sin (Hebrews 11:24,25). Suffering is external, individual and temporary; but sin is internal, universal, and continuing.  
 


 

3. Cutting off the advantages of sin before it begins.Temptations rise best from the poison of other lusts that fuel and feed them. Unholy desires give temptations strength (Colossians 3:5). Only as you wean yourself from those passions will you be freed from them (Revelation 12:11).


4. Recognizing the way of escape God provides for you when you are tempted(1 Corinthians 10:13).

Although God gives Satan permission to tempt you, remember you are still in God's loving hand. While Satan desires to sift and try you on earth (Luke 22:31,32), Christ intercedes for you in heaven (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25).