A Christianity That Works

Today’s question is, “How do you handle temptation?” James, being the practical writer that he is, gives us a few pointers.

Be Realistic: You will be tempted. When tempted ... not "if” tempted. Everybody's tempted… it's a fact of life. It is not a sin to be tempted… it is a sin to give into temptation. Temptation proves you're human, not that you're evil.

Be Responsible Don't blame others for your problems. We love to blame people, even God. v13 When tempted, no one should say, `God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone. God does not tempt. He never contradicts His word. God isn’t going to tell you one thing and have the Bible say something different.

Be Ready Just how do you prepare for temptation? II Corinthians 2:11 In order that Satan might not outwit us, we should be aware of his schemes. Get to know the devil’s M.O.

James says there are three steps the devil uses in trying to tempt you.

DESIRE: It's an inside job. If not for the inward desire you wouldn't be tempted. Any desire out of control becomes destructive.

DECEPTION: v14 He is dragged away (snared in a trap) and enticed (lured by bait). The secret in fishing is in the bait.

DISOBEDIENCE: The battle starts with your thoughts, then moves from your thoughts into actions. People ask, "What's wrong in a harmless fantasy?" What starts in your mind eventually comes out in your life.

In order to overcome temptation, be realistic - admit you have a problem, take responsibility, not blaming others, no excuses. Then get ready by understanding what happens during your temptations so you can learn how to avoid it. The next step in overcoming temptation is to be Refocused.

REFOCUS v17: If temptation begins with our inner thoughts then changing what we think about is the key to overcoming it. Don’t fight temptation, refocus your thoughts. Instead of looking at what is trying to tempt you, change your attention. Why? Whatever gets your attention, gets you.

Refocusing may mean physically removing yourself from the situation. Maybe you need to change the channel on the TV, or walk out of that movie. Maybe you need to change friendships or jobs. Maybe you need to stay off of the internet.

Ask God for help…. Pretty hard to say no to temptation until you first say yes to God.

Where are you most vulnerable? What is your weak spot? Is it your temper? Appetite? Spending? Lustful thoughts? Figure it out - then admit it to God and ask Him for a way out! God says, "I will make a way out if you trust Me." Don’t bother praying, "Lord, lead us not into temptation" if, at the same time, you flirt with temptation. You've got to co-operate.

Martin Luther said, "We cannot keep the birds from flying over us, but we can keep them from making a nest in our hair."

Two valuable resources you need in order to fight temptation, Fellowship with other Christians, Get into God's word. If you need help in either one of those areas why not drop by the Gathering Place. Join us there or here for Part V of A CHRISTIANITY THAT WORKS – “How To Be Blessed By The Bible”.