We all are tempted to sin. It is the devil’s plan that we give into temptation and be devoured.

1 Peter 5:8
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

However, God has a plan. Today we will study some scriptures on God’s promises in relation to temptation.

1) God does not tempt

James 1:13-14
13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone;
14 but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed.

We blame others for our sin. We blame God, the devil, our situation, and others. We refuse to take responsibility for our sin. We are tempted by our own desires. God does not intend to destroy us. Rather, he wants us to be saved (2 Peter 3:9)

2) God’s promise regarding the extent and solution for temptation

1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it

From the above verse, we learn about some promises God makes
a) I will not get a temptation which is unique to me alone. There are others who have been tempted similarly. In fact, Jesus also has experienced and overcome all temptation which is common to man (Heb. 4:15).
b) I will not be tempted beyond my capacity to resist it. In fact, in all situations, there will be a way to resist temptation

3) If we resist temptation, we will overcome

James 4:7
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you

It is possible to resist temptation. The method is described in Ephesians 6:11-18

4) We can get help from Jesus in our temptation

Hebrews 2:18
Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

Since Jesus has resisted temptation and not sinned, we can do it to. We must set our eyes on Jesus and get his help for he is able to help us.

Life application

Let us ask ourselves
- “What are some areas I am tempted in?”
- “Which of my own desires entices me?”

Challenge

Based on the scriptures we studied today, decide to resist temptation and look to Jesus for help.