How to overcome temptation

HOW TO OVERCOME TEMPTATION

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12 NLT)

Yesterday we learned about what temptation means: a stimulation, petition, or proposal to sin or wander, and falling into it can bring grave consequences to our lives.

Today we will learn two things that will help us overcome temptation and two more tomorrow.

  • Put your focus on something different.

Temptation always begins with a thought, and the easiest way to neutralize it is to concentrate on something else or think about something different, because resisting a thought doesn’t overcome it, it only intensifies our focus on what’s bad and makes the attraction to it stronger.

  • Speak to someone who has been consecrated about your battle, such as your leader, mentor, or pastor. (James 5:16)

You don’t have to tell the whole world your temptation, but you need to talk about your battle to at least one person.

In other words, if you are losing the battle to temptation and have good intentions of not falling and sinning, but it all remains in good intentions because temptation still defeats you, you need other people’s help; a friend to help you, pray for you, and help you take responsibility.

Don’t suppress temptation, confess it. Don’t hide it, show it. Revelation of what you are going through is the beginning of healing and freedom.

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12 NLT)

Think about it:

What thoughts that lead you to sin do you need to change?
Are you struggling with falling into temptation?
Have you confessed your battles to a trustworthy leader in church so they can help you?