The temptations that each of us faces have been designed to deal massive damage to every person who gives in to them. These traps have been craftily designed so that any unsuspecting person will get caught hook, line and sinker.
However, God has provided warnings and a way of escape for every Christian. God didn't leave us helpless. He left us with the Holy Spirit – the same power that raised Christ from the dead.
Knowing all of these, we should do our best not to allow ourselves to fall into the devil's schemes. Here are some things you need to know to be able to fight temptation, according to the Bible.
The source of temptation – James 1:13-15:
"And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, 'God is tempting me.' God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death."
The strength to reject wrongdoing – Titus 2:11-13; James 4:7-8:
"For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say 'No' to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ."
"So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world."
We are already dead to sin – Romans 6:1-4:
"Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in His death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives."
Your identity in Christ – Galatians 5:24-25:
"Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives."
The use of our freedom of choice – Galatians 5:13:
"For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love."
