The Strategy to Overcome Temptations

Temptation is a universal experience, one that every person faces. It is the desire to do something that we know is against God's will. Temptation itself is not a sin, but yielding to it can lead us away from God's path. Understanding the nature of temptation and how to overcome it is crucial for a faithful Christian life.

The Bible provides numerous teachings on the nature of temptation and how to overcome it. One foundational verse is 1 Corinthians 10:13, which offers both assurance and guidance:

"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."

This verse reminds us that our struggles are not unique and that God always provides a means to resist temptation.

Jesus Christ Himself faced temptation, providing us with a perfect example of how to overcome it. In Matthew 4:1-11, we read about Jesus being tempted by Satan in the wilderness. Despite being offered physical comfort, power, and wealth, Jesus resisted by relying on Scripture:

"Jesus answered, 'It is written: "Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."

By turning to God's Word, Jesus demonstrates the power of Scripture in combating temptation. We, too, can arm ourselves with Bible verses to strengthen our resolve.

1. Repent to God, acknowledge the remorse that you feel and say that you are sorry.

2. Give yourself the space to cry, feel bad about what you did. BUt don't stay there, Get Up, Stand strong with this STRATEGY!

3. Speaking out loud: Ask the Holy Spirit to help you on this journey to overcome your temptations.

4. Write out Scripture verses that declare Victory and Strength over that particular weakness.

5. Say the Scriptures out loud everyday. You may feel disconnected from the words at the beginning, (you are not faking) stick with it, Keep Speaking the Word soon they will feel more comfortable and your Spirit will catch it.

6. List all the persons, places, situations that would cause you to fall to this temptation.

7. Spot your triggers: Your triggers are the persons, the words, the things you see, the smells that ignite your desire to do the thing you feel guilty about doing... Triggers are closely tied to thoughts and feelings _AVOID THEM!

8. Create boundaries: these are self-imposed rules to Safe Guard yourself from unnecessary drama, hurt and pain. Set them up now to get control over your temptations. When you get into a relationship they will protect and preserve your relationship.

9. Expect your Obstacle course to begin, because the enemy wants you bound. Prayer does not eliminate your hurdles. PRAYER EMPOWERS YOU so that you can step over it: you see it quicker and easier.

10. Learn Your Cycle: think back, record it: your seasons of mental, emotional, physical fatigue are times when old desires show up. Be alert & shut it down!

11. Function from knowledge not emotions. Continue to do what the Word says even if you do not feel to, because that's when you may need it the most.

12. Denounce the temptation that may seem like a tsunami. It is NOT. Go back to step #4 -8