How to Overcome Temptation — In Biblical Context

The Biblical Context

Temptation is universal, but defeat is not inevitable. 1 Corinthians 10:13 promises, "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." Every temptation comes with a door of escape. The believer's task is to find it and walk through it. The first defence is flight. Joseph did not negotiate with Potiphar's wife; he fled, leaving his garment in her hand (Genesis 39:12). 2 Timothy 2:22 commands, "Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace." When temptation comes through a person, a place, or a device, the godly response is often physical removal. The second defence is Scripture. Jesus overcame Satan's temptations in the wilderness by quoting Deuteronomy (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10). A mind filled with the Word has less room for the enemy's suggestions. Psalm 119:11 says, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." Memorised Scripture is ammunition in spiritual warfare. The third defence is prayer. Matthew 6:13 teaches us to pray, "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." Jesus Himself told the disciples in Gethsemane, "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matthew 26:41). Prayerless believers are easy prey. Finally, remember Christ's sympathy. Hebrews 4:15 says, "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." He understands, He helps, and He holds out mercy when we fall (1 John 1:9). Temptation resisted becomes strength; temptation indulged becomes bondage. Choose the escape.

Where It Sits in Scripture

Supporting Passages