Temptation is all around us. Every day, we deal with different types of temptation and as Christians, we always try our best to resist it. You have to admit, it's not easy. We all need help from God and His word to guide us through and give us the strength we need to resist temptation. If you're currently struggling or know someone who is, these Bible verses can help.
The Devil's Work
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; - James 1:12-13
When faced with a temptation, the first thing must come to a mind is that the devil is working his charms on you. Temptations are the work of the devil because he wants you to sin and grow far away from the Lord. So if you know that from the beginning, you will be more aware of what you should and shouldn't do. You will also feel more driven to beat the devil.
You Must Endure
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. - 1 Corinthians 10:13
While temptation is from the devil, every temptation you face will be a test of your faith. This is the reason why God allows you to face temptation head-on. He also wants to see how you will do. If it gets really tough, just keep in mind that God will not give you a temptation that you cannot bear. There is always a way out. It's up to you if you will take His way out or not – this is the test.
Run Away
Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a man can commitis outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. - 1 Corinthians 6:18
It is clear that you must run away from sexual immorality. Don't let it catch up. Sexual immorality is persistent, which is why you have to be consistent in fleeing away from it. Remember, your body is God's temple and the Holy Spirit lives in you. You must not defile it by engaging in different forms of sexual immorality. Knowing this, you may feel more humility when a sexual temptation comes knocking at your door again.
Reap What You Sow
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. - Galatians 6:7-8
This is a good verse to remember. In life, we always reap what we sow. If you let yourself be tempted over and over again, then the devil will easily overcome you. We don't even have to discuss what will happen to you after that. However, when you choose the right path and resist temptation, there is eternal life waiting for you. I don't know about you, but the right choice is quite obvious here.
Always Pray
On reaching the place, he said to them, "Pray that you will not fall into temptation." - Galatians 6:7-8
There is no better weapon to fight temptation than prayer. This is your lifeline, your personal emergency line to God. Prayer is the best way to let God know about your problems and ask for strength and guidance. Every time you pray, you will find yourself feeling better, more empowered and protected. When faced with temptation, don't fail to pray.
The unfortunate thing is, temptation will always be present. This also means that we have to be on guard every single day to fight it. But, you must not be afraid. As long as God is with you, you can endure anything.
