The Power to Overcome TemptationSample

Trying to Overcome Temptation on Your Own?

“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NLT)

Do you keep stumbling over the same temptation? Maybe it’s related to jealousy, worry, lust, gossip, or gluttony. Whatever it is, you won’t have victory over a persistent temptation if you try to overcome it by yourself.

The Bible says, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NLT).

God made us to need each other, because he knows that we’re better together. We’re better when we serve together, when we worship together, when we grieve together, when we fellowship together—and when we fight temptation together.

Who’s helping you fight temptation? Who’s checking up on you? Who have you invited to help you grow spiritually? Who do you allow to ask you the tough questions? Who are you checking up on?

You don’t have to tell everybody about the temptations you struggle with, but you do need to tell somebody. That person can support you and help you overcome your struggles.

When someone says, “I’ve never told this to anybody before . . .,” be quick to listen and pay attention, because it may mean they are taking the first step toward freedom.

Remember this: Revealing your feeling is the beginning of healing. Talking about your temptations is one way you overcome them.

How serious are you about changing? Wouldn’t you like to come out of this season of your life with a stronger faith, having overcome a persistent temptation? Why not reach out to a friend who can hold you accountable?

There may be some bad habits in your life you’re just not going to get over until you get support from a committed friend. Find that person, and then be that person for someone else.

This devotional © 2024 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.