This is the second of two posts on how to resist temptation; the first one can be found here. All temptations stem from our unstable passions and from lack of trust in God. When we do not stick to our convictions we are like a ship without a rudder tossed around by a storm. Instead, temptations should refine us like a fire refines gold.
Temptations should be resisted as soon as they knock on our door. We must not let them into the home of our heart, but rather go outside door and prevent them from entering at all. This is the first key to resist temptation. Once they enter they start to grow. A poet has said:
In the beginning
You might have won
It’s past your skill now
No more can be done
Temptation progresses from a suggestion and moves into our imagination. Then we have thoughts of its pleasure and then it captures our desire. Finally, we give in. The longer we delay resistance, the stronger the enemy becomes, and it becomes more difficult to resist temptation.
Powerful temptations can come at any point in our growth. Therefore, we shouldn’t be discouraged when we are tempted but rather humbly cry out to God for help. He promises to help us: “With the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it,” I Cor. 10:13. (ESV). And we should never be prideful when we successfully endure great temptation because it is easy for a small one to trip us up later. Therefore, we should never depend on our own strength to resist temptation.
Temptations reveal how Christlike we are and lead to greater rewards. It is no great accomplishment to be devout if we never have trials. The one who endures temptations is the one who has made progress.
What is your first impulse when a temptation comes? Do you immediately slam the door of your heart to resist temptation? How successful are you in resisting temptation and how can you improve?
This post is based on Chapter 13 of the popular book, The Imitation of Christ written in the 14th century.
New Podcast! If you want more help for overcoming challenges and finding the peace, joy and fulfillment that comes with abiding in Christ, then please subscribe to our podcast Christ Formation (click link for more info and links to podcast apps.)
