What must I do if I am tempted?

Temptation comes from Satan (Genesis 3:1, 13; Matthew 4:1-11) and it also comes from the evil desires within us (James 1:14). Satan also uses other people and things to tempt us (Luke 10:25; 1 Corinthians 10:9). Temptations came in order to draw us away from God and to make us weak and unable to witness for God.

Jesus was tempted and he received help from God. Even though Jesus never sinned, He spent long hours in prayer gaining strength from God. We need it even more, as we find it so easy to sin. When you are tempted you need to pray for God's help so that  you will not give in. God has promised his help and you need to claim it and not try to face temptation on your own (1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Peter 2:9a).

Secondly you must avoid the things that you know will be temptations. You must do your part as well. You cannot expect God to help you in temptation if you go into it with your eyes wide open (1 Timothy 6:11; Ephesians 4:27).

Thirdly you must resist the devil. When you give yourself to God and accept Jesus as your Saviour, you can say 'No' to Satan, but only with God's strength (James 4:7; Ephesians 6:1013).

Do not be too discouraged if you fall, but ask for forgiveness and for the ability to be more alert next time (1 John 2:1-3). When you overcome temptation, remember to thank and praise God and go on in his strength.

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