REFLECT: How did today's reading impact you?
"Remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it. When you are tempted, He will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it." (I Cor. 10:13 - New Living Translation)
There is always a way out.
In what area am I being tempted? What can't I talk about? God knows already and He wants us to have victory over sin. Pride will keep us from admitting what we are struggling with. Be encouraged: "... greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world." (I John 4:4) I need to practice four Biblical keys to defeating temptation:
- First, Refocus my attention on something else. Use the principle of replacement. I shouldn't dwell on the temptation, but occupy myself with God's word. Instead of playing defensively by blocking every arrow of the enemy, I need to play offensively. I need to use the Sword of the Spirit, the word of God. By God's strength I need to make right choices in what I allow to come into my mind, especially monitoring my media intake.
- Reveal your struggle with a godly friend or support group. Not only admitting our struggle to the Lord but allowing a friend in, to encourage, pray and hold us accountable. When we bring our struggles and temptations into the light and allow a fellow believer to help us to do what is right God is honored. He will have the victory.
- Resist the devil. Use the word of God as my weapon against Satan.
- Finally, Realize my vulnerability. Remember that is easier to stay out of temptation than to get out of it.
"Gracious Father, I love you more than any sin, struggle, or temptation I am wrestling with. I want You reigning in every area of my life. Please give me the strength and courage to do what is right. Amen
What area of my life do I need to bring into the light and have God reign in? Who can I ask to come along side of me?
"... Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus..." Philippians 2:5 (NIV)
