The Word of God addresses the issue of temptation and provides us Believers with the tools to overcome what I call ‘defeatism.’ And there is no need to fear.

Reading and studying Scripture is the first standard against temptation. From Psalm 119:9-12 we find, “How can a young person maintain a pure life? By guarding it according to your instructions. With all my heart I seek you. Do not allow me to stray from your commands. In my heart I store up your words, so I might not sin against you. You deserve praise, O Lord. Teach me your statutes.”

1.“So let the one who thinks he is standing be careful that he does not fall. No trial has overtaken you that is not faced by others. And God is faithful: He will not let you be tried beyond what you are able to bear, but with the trial will also provide a way out so that you may be able to endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:12-13, Net2.

2. “Adulterers, do you not know that friendship with the world means hostility toward God? So whoever decides to be the world’s friend makes himself God’s enemy. Or do you think the scripture means nothing when it says, “The spirit that God caused to live within us has an envious yearning”?  But he gives greater grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but he gives grace to the humble.” So submit to God. But resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and make your hearts pure, you double-minded.” James 4:4-8.

 3. “My Father, if possible, let this cup pass from me! Yet not what I will, but what you will.” Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. He said to Peter, “So, couldn’t you stay awake with me for one hour? Stay awake and pray that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:39-41. Jesus cousnels us to remain faithful, to ‘stay in the game,’ and that prayer is a most important offense against temptatio. What I know among us is a tendency to become fearful. Jesus encourages us to maintain our moral integrity.

4. “Finally, be strengthened in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Clothe yourselves with the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. For this reason, take up the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand your ground on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand.” Ephesians 6:10-13. Paul addresses our need for Divine protection against temptation being the entire Armor of God. We must equip our lives with God’s truth, righteousness, and faith.

5. “Therefore consider carefully how you live—not as unwise but as wise, taking advantage of every opportunity because the days are evil. For this reason do not be foolish, but be wise by understanding what the Lord’s will is. And do not get drunk with wine, which is debauchery, but be filled by the Spirit.” Ephesians 5:15-18. Walking in the Spirit isthe antidote to succumbing to our desires and the temptations surrounding them.The Apostle here addresses the power of living by the Holy Spirit’s instruction.

6. “I hereby guide you in the way of wisdom, and I lead you in upright paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered, and when you run, you will not stumble. Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; protect it, because it is your life. Do not enter the path of the wicked or walk in the way of those who are evil. Avoid it, do not go on it; turn away from it, and go on.” Proverbs 4:11-15. Wisdom literature in Scripture advises us to avoid those who lead toward temptation. We are to choose a path leading to God’s righteousness.

7. “Be sober and alert. Your enemy the devil, like a roaring lion, is on the prowl looking for someone to devour. Resist him, strong in your faith, because you know that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are enduring the same kinds of suffering. And, after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory in Christ will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him belongs the power forever. Amen.” 1 Peter 5:8-11.  Satan is always seeking to challenge our weaknesses and Peter instructs us to remain vigilant.Our faith is a crucial element to stand against temptation.

8. “Happy is the one who endures testing because when he has proven to be genuine, he will receive the crown of life that God promised to those who love him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted by evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each one is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desires. Then when desire conceives, it gives birth to sin, and when sin is full grown, it gives birth to death.” James 1:12-15. (Please read the 11 verses prior to vv 12-15) Temptation is not from God but comes from our individual desires.Temptation comes from Satan an our responsibility is to face Satan’s temptations with the Word of God.

Jesus remains Lord.