Day 27 – Defeating temptation

There is always a way out

God will not permit any temptation that you cannot overcome – that a temptation may be too overpowering for you to bear, is a lie from Satan.

REFOCUS YOUR ATTENTION ON SOMETHING ELSE

Every time you try to block a thought out of your mind, you drive it deeper into your memory. Since temptation always begins with a thought, the quickest way to neutralize its allure is to turn your attention to something else – change the channel of your mind, get interested in another idea.

The battle for sin is won or lost in your mind. Whatever gets your attention will get you. The more you think about something the stronger it takes hold of you. Temptation begins by capturing your attention; attention arouses your emotions; emotions activate your behaviour. Ignoring a temptation is far more effective than fighting it. So when temptation calls you on the phone, don’t argue with it, just hang up!

Spiritually, your mind is your most vulnerable organ. Keep your mind occupied with God’s Word and other good thoughts. (I am fortunate to have one person I trust and love – all my bad or questionable thoughts vanish by refocusing there – I really must focus on God’s Word more, too!) It may take a lifetime, but with the help of the Holy Spirit you can reprogram the way you think.

REVEAL YOUR STRUGGLE TO A GODLY FRIEND (OR SUPPORT GROUP)

You need at least one person you can honestly share your struggle with. Some temptations are only overcome with the help of a partner who prays for you, encourages you, and holds you accountable. Don’t repress it; confess it! Don’t conceal it; revealing your feeling is the beginning of healing.

Satan wants you to think that your sins and temptations are unique, so you must keep them secret. The truth is this that whatever you can’t (or won’t) talk about is already out of control in your life! Willpower and personal resolutions aren't enough. When we do what God wants us to do by admitting our struggles to a Godly friend; we experience great relief and liberation, the pressure valve is released and we see hope for the future.

RESIST THE DEVIL

Believers are often compared to soldiers serving in enemy territory.

+ You won’t be able to say no to the Devil unless you’ve said yes to Christ.

+ Use the Word of God as your weapon against Satan – quoting Scripture (the truth of God) from memory makes him tremble. (Don’t try and argue with the Devil, he’s better than you at it; has had thousands of years to practice) If you don’t have any Bible verses memorized, you’ve got no bullets in your gun.

REALIZE YOUR VULNERABILITY

Don’t get cocky and overconfident – given the right circumstances, any of us are capable of any sin – never let your guard down and think you’re beyond it. Remember that it is easier to stay out of temptation than to get out of it! Forget about self-confidence, it’s useless. Cultivate God-confidence!

Stay strong… Love you ~ Stafford

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” -Psalm 139:23-24