Here are a few words of encouragement if you’re struggling with temptation. All of us are prone to temptation(s). The only people that aren’t tempted are the dead. A temptation is an occasion of enticement (allurement, attraction, pull, seduction, inducement) to do evil. It can be motivated by lust, greed, fear, pride, deprivation, thoughts, dreams, etc. Some say it’s a test. The Bible gives many examples of men and women being tempted. We know that some gave into their temptations and suffered consequences. We also know that those who resisted their temptations gained favor with God. The clear message from the Bible is that to be tempted is not a sin. It’s only a sin if you give into the temptation.

Matthew 4 lets us know that even our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ was tempted, yet he did not sin by giving into the temptations of the devil. He is our great example for dealing with temptation. In that instance, Jesus recited the Word of God back to the devil each time he was faced with a temptation. It lets us know that our knowledge of the scriptures is a powerful weapon for dealing with temptation.

Hebrews 4: 15-16 confirms that Jesus, like us, dealt with various temptations yet he did not sin. It says, “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need”.

James 1:2 reads, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” Each time we are tempted we have an opportunity to exercise our faith and patience to see us through whatever the temptation might be.

1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” This lets us know that being tempted is a normal experience but God can deliver us from it.

So, don’t think something is wrong with you because you are tempted. It only means you’re pretty normal. Just make sure it stays just that – a temptation. Until next time, God Bless.