“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13) [ESV]
To win over temptation you MUST…
- … understand how it works.
Genesis 3:1-6
Phase 1: Doubt God’s Word – (v. 1)
Phase 2: Deception – (v. 4)
Phase 3: A wrong Desire inside you (vv. 5 & 6a)
Phase 4: Disobedience – (v. 6b) - … be realistic about what makes you vulnerable.
“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-27) [ESV]
“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” (Proverbs 4:23) [ESV]
“The wise man looks ahead. A fool tries to fool himself and won’t face facts.” (Proverbs 14:8) [LB] - … identify your sequence of temptation and avoid it.
“Plan carefully what you do … Avoid evil and walk straight ahead. Don’t go one step off the right way.” (Proverbs 4:26-27) [GNT] - … cry out to God and focus on Scripture.
“… call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.” (Psalm 50:15) [ESV]
“I’ve banked your promises in the vault of my heart so that I won’t sin…” (Psalm 119:11) [MSG] - … enlist someone to hold you accountable.
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) [ESV] - … remember that God is for you!
“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13) [ESV]
“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57) [ESV]