Forward: 21 Days of Fasting and PrayerSample

RESISTING TEMPTATION

When we give in to temptation, the saying “one step forward, two steps back” can be a description of our walk with God. We take one step forward into God’s plan for us, but sin causes us to take two steps back. However, that doesn’t need to be our experience! God has given us all that we need to resist temptation, so that every step we take leads us closer to God’s purpose for us.

We need to humble ourselves before God. Pride tells us that we can resist temptation on our own and that we don’t need God. The truth is, turning to God is the only way we find the spiritual strength to withstand temptation. 

Bring temptation into the light. Secrecy keeps us trapped in temptation, but openness exposes the schemes of the enemy. When we are open before God and others about the temptations we face, God shows us a way out! Expose temptation while it is still small - a wayward thought, a fleeting desire for the worldly things - and don’t allow it to grow.  

Pray! When you face temptation, confess your weakness before God, and ask Him to give you the strength to resist. Don’t go on this journey alone. God has placed leaders above us whom we can be accountable to. Find someone who you trust that can pray with you and challenge you, even as you take steps forward in God’s plans and purposes.

Reflect:

• Are there certain times during the day when you feel susceptible to temptation? Take active steps to flee from sources of temptation and turn your focus towards God during those times (e.g. by declaring a verse over your life). 
• Is there an area in your life where you constantly face temptation? Commit it to prayer and speak with a leader who can pray and journey with you.

Prayer:

Dear God, I humble myself before You. I acknowledge that I am not strong enough to overcome temptation on my own. I need Your strength to truly overcome. Lord, I commit to not trying to do it on my own. Instead, I choose to rely wholly on You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.