Responding to Temptation Wisely

Charles F. Stanley

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:13

I. Introduction: Most people try to resist temptation but give in eventually, making excuses about "being human." Their sin brings a weight of guilt and shame, so they confess their lapse and promise the Lord they will improve. Unfortunately, this cycle often repeats time and again. The good news is that believers can learn to endure temptation and resist its appeal.

II. What is the nature of temptation?

A. It is an enticement to take our God-given desires beyond their God-given limits.We may be seeking something the Lord doesn't want for us, attempting to have it sooner than He desires, or pursuing it in an improper way.

B. There are three sources of temptation:

1. Our flesh. "Each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust" (James 1:14).

2. The Devil. He deceives us (1 Thess. 3:5), just as he lied to Eve about the consequences of her rebellion against God (Gen. 3:1-5).

3. The world's system. For example, ads entice us to spend money, and immodest clothing can stir up lust.

C. Temptation, by its very nature, is common and universal.

1. First Corinthians 10:13 says, "No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man."

2. Temptation always has an attraction, or we wouldn't be drawn to it. Essentially, it's an enticement to evil.

3. Satan's purpose for tempting us is to distract us from our relationship with the Father. When you and I are focused on ungodly desires, our prayer life is hindered, and we cannot adequately understand the Bible.

D. Temptation is different from a trial. A temptation is an inducement to commit some evil or disobey God. A trial is simply a time of difficulty in a person's life. Satan wants to use both to destroy us. But the Lord allows temptation and trial to strengthen our faith and teach us to depend on Him.

E. Christians often believe myths about temptation, including:

1. Temptation itself is a sin. No, sin occurs only if we act on the temptation.

2. Giving in to temptation disappoints God. While the Lord is displeased when we fall, we cannot disappoint Him, because He already knows the future.

3. Believers can "fall" into temptation. The Holy Spirit provides us with the power to resist sin. Therefore, in order to transgress, Christians must deliberately step into temptation.

4. It's always best to run away from temptation. This is certainly true sometimes (2 Tim. 2:22). But for circumstances you can't escape, it's essential to learn how to resist temptation.

F. Temptation that results in sin often follows a common pattern:

1. An idea is planted in the mind.
2. The imagination gets involved—a person dreams about fulfilling a certain desire.
3. There is a willful decision to sin against the Lord.
4. He or she makes a choice—the person gives consent to the idea of disobeying God.
5. The final step is sin.

III. How can we respond wisely to temptation?

A. Focus on the big picture.Consider how yielding to a particular desire will affect your health, finances, relationships, and God's plans for you. Also, look for a godly way to fulfill your longing. For instance, instead of stealing, work to earn the money to buy what you want.

B. Recall 1 Corinthians 10:13: "God is faithful [and] will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also." Claim this promise when temptation strikes.

C. Rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. As a born-again child of God, you have the awesome power of the Spirit to reset your thinking, change your attitude, and enable you to say no (John 14:15-16).

D. "Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth" (Col. 3:2). In other words, determine to live a victorious Christian life. Don't focus on desires that will draw you away from God
(1 John 2:15-17).

E. Identify areas of weakness. When you and I know our limitations, we can be more sensitive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in that area. For example, if you have a spending problem, avoid going to the mall "just to look."

F. Recognize times of weakness. Remember H.A.L.T.: don't allow yourself to become too hungry, angry, lonely, or tired.

G. Build a defense by reading God's Word.Study the Bible, and ask the Lord to build spiritual principles into your life as a protection against temptation. Don't reason with Satan; speak biblical truth, following Christ's example (Luke 4:1-12).

IV. Conclusion: Maybe you are tired of failing over and over by giving in to temptation and destroying your life. Apart from God's help, you will never be able to find genuine freedom from sin. Tell the Lord that you want Him to forgive you and take charge of your life. Put into practice the principles of this message. Then you, too, will have the ability to resist temptation through the power, grace, and mercy of God.