We will always have troubles and temptations in this world. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble.” John 16:33 (NIV) Moreover, it will be a struggle to resist temptation because the root of temptation is within us, for “each person is tempted when he is lured and tempted by his own desire.” James 1:14 (ESV) Trials and suffering naturally become temptations because they tempt us to doubt and turn from following Jesus. Therefore, if we are having troubles then we know that a temptation is lurking. So, in order to resist temptation we need to be on constant alert to know when a temptation has begun. We don’t need to be anxiously consumed with fear of temptations, but neither can we afford to neglect awareness. The enemy is always prowling around like a lion hoping to sink his teeth into us.
“if we are having troubles then we know that a temptation is lurking”
Since we can’t avoid temptations, it is best to turn them to our advantage. Even when they seem overwhelming we can welcome them as God’s tools to humble and purify us. We can learn much about Christlike living. It seems that most of the great Christians of the past have been formed by troubles and the temptations that come with them. No matter who we are or where we are, we can be tempted, especially with unbelief or pride. We cannot escape temptations; rather, we must learn to resist temptation with endurance.
We can’t truly defeat temptations just with our own willpower. We must rely on God’s Spirit to continue to regenerate us. Otherwise, we won’t kill the root of the temptation. Instead, we must patiently resist and depend on God to transform us. We should also find someone we can confide in who will encourage us. Later, we can also encourage others who are tempted in the same way.
When it is time to resist temptation do you, (1) bring it into your full awareness, (2) think of it as an opportunity to become more like Christ, and (3) turn your focus back on Jesus and depend on him?
This post is based on Chapter 13 of the popular book, The Imitation of Christ written in the 14th century. Next week we will post part two of resisting temptation.
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