Matthew 6:13, “And lead us not into temptation.”
The opening scripture is from one of the most common portion in the bible. It begs the question, is it possible to live a temptation free life?
As Christians, we all go through temptations in our daily walk. It is a constant battle between our flesh and our spirit – the urge or desire to do something that is not consistent with our Christian nature. It is a battle from the devil whose means of attack is to lure us away from God; it is his ultimate goal to deceive the child of God into doing things that will separate us from the love of God.
Temptations come in different forms and in ways we least expect. For example, in the face of a a pressing need, many of us will be faced with the temptation to steal, engage in corrupt practise, the urge to lie for quick access to money, to embezzle funds at work. We could even be tempted with the lie that an easy way out of a challenge of depression, infidelity in marriage is by committing suicide.
As God’s children, we should know that God is with us even when we go through temptations.
See the ways in which God assures us.
- 1 Corinthians 10:13 (AMP), “No temptation [regardless of its source]has overtaken or enticed you that is not common to human experience [nor is any temptation unusual or beyond human resistance]; but God is faithful [to His word—He is compassionate and trustworthy], and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability [to resist], but along with the temptation He [has in the past and is now and]will [always] provide the way out as well, so that you will be able to endure it [without yielding, and will overcome temptation with joy].”
- Hebrews 2:18 (AMP), “Because Jesus Himself [in His humanity]has suffered in being tempted, He is able to help and provide immediate assistance to those who are being tempted and exposed to suffering”.
So, when temptations come, fight it God’s way, take it to Him and He will help you get through it.
There are different ways we can fight and overcome temptations when we are faced with them. They include;
Looking beyond the subject matter: Focusing on the issue at hand makes it seem bigger. However, when we put our focus solely on God’s promise of helping us out, it becomes easier.
Praying for self-control: This is an important virtue that every child of God should possess; only then can we truly deny ourselves of certain earthly pleasures that will serve as inlets for temptation.
We should not rely on our human effort to help us through anything. We will only wear ourselves out. Choose instead to believe in Christ ability to see you through. Do not wait for temptations to come before fighting it, always be prepared in the place of consistent prayers, filling up on God’s Word, staying aligned with Christ.
By sharing how you are able to overcome temptations, you might be giving strength to someone, somewhere. Don’t keep your victory story to yourself; inspire someone today by sharing in the comment section. God bless you.
By Vera Dauda-Okobi