“Be innocent as babies when it comes to evil, but be mature and wise in understanding matters of this kind.” 1Cor. 14:20
Temptation and sin are inevitable, but they do not have to be some kind of cosmic life sentence. Through Christ, we do have the victory.
Here are 7 quick steps that continue to work for us, perhaps they will help you to.
- Develop a vibrant walking relationship with the Lord.
- Prayerfully take time to write out personal goals...short range and longer range
- Record vulnerable areas, asking God to help me understand what in particular makes me vulnerable.
- After thinking through potential consequences of succumbing to a particular weakness, develop a plan of action to avoid situations that tempt me most.
- Ask God to strengthen me against my weakness (mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually).
- Keep my Nikes ready...FLEE don’t fight!
- Become accountable to a strong, but loving and caring Believer.
And here a few tips from Jesus Himself:
- “Keep alert and pray. Otherwise temptation will overpower you. For though the spirit is willing enough, the body is weak!...Get up and pray. Otherwise temptation will overpower you." " Matt. 26:41; Lk.22:46
- Understand that “temptation comes from the lure of our own evil desires.” Jms. 1:14
- “But 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.” 1Cr 10:13
- “If another Christian is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.” Gal 6:1
There we go...7 steps to victory, seems like such a nice neat triumphal package. ~ Effortless, easy, trouble-free and uncomplicated huh? NOT.
Some temptations and sin areas like an addiction, a wrong done against us (like incest/rape), or a impious affection of the heart may take a lifetime of utter dependence upon the Lord to experience daily victory. ~But if we lean on Jesus with all of our heart, mind, soul and strength, victory IS a sure thing.
“For the LORD your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory!” Dt. 20:4
“Yours, O LORD, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is Yours, O LORD, and this is Your kingdom. We adore You as the One who is over all things.” 1Ch 29:11
“In Your majesty, ride out to victory, defending truth, humility, and justice. Go forth to perform awe-inspiring deeds!” Ps. 45:4
“Yours, O LORD, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is Yours, O LORD, and this is Your kingdom. We adore You as the One who is over all things.” 1Ch 29:11
“In Your majesty, ride out to victory, defending truth, humility, and justice. Go forth to perform awe-inspiring deeds!” Ps. 45:4
Have a wonderful, victorious week! Shaun and Betsy
