How to Overcome in the War with Temptation

Introduction:

1 Corinthians 10:13 is a passage of great comfort and assurance to the child of God. It is good to know that after salvation, God will not leave us to our own devices. Still, we are weak and find ourself succumbing to various temptations. Sometimes, it just feels like it is relentless. How can we succeed? James 1:12-18 contains helpful words for the Christian.

I. James 1:12 – the one who endures temtpation will be blessed.

A.     When we persevere, we will be blessed.

B.     Phrase been approved, literally means “passed the test.” Tests will come.

C.     What better encouragement than what can be found here? See Revelation 2:8-11.

II. James 1:13 – we are not tempted by God.

A.     Our God is holy and cannot be tempted by evil and He cannot tempt anyone to do evil. We must not blame God for our temptations.

B.     1:16-18 – God is the source of good, not evil.  Every good and perfect gift comes from Him.

III. 1:14-15 – How sin develops

A.     1:14 – the first stage is temptation.

1.     Temptation involves two things:

                                              a.     Lusts (desires, NKJV) – a strong desire for something.

                                              b.     Enticement – an opportunity and encouragement to satisfy the desire.

B.     In and of itself, we do not sin when experiencing temptation.

1.     Hebrews 4:15 – Jesus was tempted and did not sin.

2.     Temptation leads to sin when we yield to it and act upon it.

3.     Sin is: Desire + Opportunity + Action

C.     This does not excuse our holding onto improper thoughts and sensous desires outside of the boudaries God has provided.

1.     Lust is a sin - Job 31:11-12a - For lust is a shameful sin, a crime that should be punished. It is a fire that burns all the way to hell. (NLT)

                                              a.     Matthew 5:27-28

2.     Lust is the action of holding on to improper thoughts.

3.     2 Corinthians 10:5 – take every thought captive – for Christ.

D.     1:15 – If Satan is succesful and leads us to sin, if unforgiven, sin brings about death.

IV. Steps to Victory.

A.     Immerse our self in God’s word – before times of temptation come.

B.     Hebrews 4:12 – Bible is the perfect agent to get to the hard to reach places and clean out destructive thoughts .

C.     Temptation is an exercise in self-control.

1.     Got to resist…and realize that if we give in, it will not stop there.

2.     Philippians 2:12-13 – we are never alone as we seek to God’s will.

D.     Limit your opportunities

1.     Purposely avoid situations that excite temptation. Psalm 101:3-4 , 6-7

E.     Remember that every temptation is an opportunity for God to lead you past the obstance and deeper into personal transformation.

1.     We can always become stronger & more usable to God.

Conclusion:

A.     James 1:12

B.     Are you looking forward to eternal life?

C.     Make a change in your life by giving your self to God. Obey the gospel today!