How to Fight the Temptation to Sin

The truth is, we all struggle with sin in our lives. Some more than others I suppose, but we all get tempted to sin. Jesus said that the devil is a thief, and comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy.  John 10:10  What, though, does the devil steal? What does he want to kill? What does he want to destroy? The answer, simply, is “us”. He wants to steal your joy, your family, your friends, your job, and your life. He wants to kill you. Don’t get freaked  out though. Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world. I John 4:4 God is mightier, He is stronger, and way smarter than the devil. He’s got you covered.

Matthew 4: 3-11 tells us exactly how to overcome temptation. First of all, know that temptation will come. That’s a promise. Be prepared. We all know that Jesus was tempted by the devil, but He knew what to do about it. He is pretty smart, and if it worked for Him it will certainly work for us. Simply speak the Word which is the truth. God’s way is perfect. The WORD of the Lord is tested and tried; He is a shield to all those who take refuge and put their trust in Him. Psalm 18: 30 Think of the Word as a weapon to fight against the enemy.

Here is a ‘life’ example. I’m sure we all have experienced people who have hurt us. I had a friend who really hurt me with her words. She talked badly about me with others. I have carried that with me for years. I’m happy to say that, now, I am able to let that go and forgive her. It was the enemy at work trying to steal my joy, and my friendship. He was successful for about two years after this happened. Unfortunately, she was not willing to continue the friendship, but I was able to stop the enemy from constantly reminding me that this friend said all these terrible things. He tried telling me they were true, and that there is no way I’d be able to have healthy relationships because of it. So, I fought back using the Word of God. What was the temptation for me to sin? I wanted to say mean things back, and to others about this person which, by the way, is not the thing to do. Secondly, I was listening to lies about myself that stole my joy.

I used Luke 6:28. Invoke blessings upon and pray for the happiness of those who curse you, implore God’s blessing (favor) upon those who abuse you. I also reminded the enemy who I am in Christ.  For example, I am loved. I John 5.12, and I Thessalonians 5:5 I am a son (daughter) of light and not darkness.

So, in a nut shell, Matthew 4:11 tells us this:

1. Temptations come
2. Speak the Word.
3. Devil leaves
4. You are comforted

Just as Jesus did when He was tempted by the devil.

If I were to pray Luke 6:28 for someone who has hurt me, I’d pray something like this.

Father, in Jesus name, I declare a Heavenly blessing upon (name)’s life. I ask for favor upon her life. I declare that she finds happiness that can only be found in you. Bless her and her family. Thank you, Father, for helping me grow by going through this. Thank you for your Word and comforting me. Amen! Then I'd want to praise Him. There is healing in praise. (that's a whole other post though)

You are loved.

Bye for now.