Real Christianity Part 2: Temptation Insights!
October 3, 2021
James 1:13-16 (NLT)
And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. 14 Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. 15 These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. 16 So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters.
Temptation Insight #1
Temptations are !
Matthew 16:24-26 (NLT)
“If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and follow me. 25 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will find it.”
Hebrews 4:15-16 (TLB)
This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses since he had the same temptations we do, though he never once gave way to them and sinned. 16 So let us come boldly to the very throne of God and stay there to receive his mercy and to find grace to help us in our times of need.
2 Corinthians 12:10 (TLB)
… For when I am weak, then I am strong—the less I have, the more I depend on him.
Temptation Insight #2
Temptations are !
“There are no sudden blow-outs in life, only slow leaks!”
- There’s a desire-stage to temptations!
- There’s a deception-stage to temptations!
- There’s a disobedience-stage to temptations!
- There’s a death-stage to temptations!
Temptation Insight #3
Temptations are !
Matthew 26:41 (MSG)
Stay alert; be in prayer so you don’t wander into temptation without even knowing you’re in danger.
“H.A.L.T” — Hungry; Angry; Lonely, or Tired
Proverbs 24:16 (NLT)
The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again.