Avoiding Temptation

There is no temptation that is unique to you.

Hearing about someone struggle with temptation and God help them through it should encourage us.

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.Hebrews 4:15

Common does not mean continuous.

When habitual sin stops, we get a better glance at the depths of our issues.

Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the LORD.Lamentations 3:40

Temptation is only overcome through the faithfulness of God.

When a temptation is presented, my ability to avoid it is predicated on God’s faithfulness.

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)Hebrews 10:23

God frequently allows temptation above what we can handle, because His expectation is that we rely on Him to escape it.

God allowing something to happen is not Him approving of it.

Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.James 1:13-15

This is a conditional bible promise.

A way to escape temptation won’t be apparent if I don’t really want to escape.

He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?Isaiah 44:20

Questions to consider if I truly want to avoid temptation:

Do you believe God’s faithfulness is the only way to avoid temptation?

What watchtowers do I need to have set up?

Do you actually want to escape?

God Hates Sin!

Am I praying to God to change my heart?