A Faith That Works When Life Doesn’t: Part 2Sample

Why You Need Help to Overcome Temptation

Is there a temptation you keep stumbling with over and over again? Maybe it’s related to jealousy, worry, lust, gossip, gluttony, or the overuse of electronics and social media. Whatever it is, you won’t have victory over a persistent temptation if you try to overcome it by yourself.

Who's helping you fight temptation? 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?

The Bible says, “Two 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).

You don't have to tell everybody about the temptations you struggle with, but you do need to tell someone. 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 the way you overcome them.

How serious are you about changing? Wouldn’t you like to come out of hard circumstances with a stronger faith, having overcome a persistent temptation? Why not reach out to a friend, who can help you be accountable. You can connect through text, direct message, video chat, or even a good, old-fashioned phone call.

There are 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 to someone else.

Talk It Over

• What qualities should you look for in a friend you can confide in? Ask God to develop those same qualities in you as you become a better friend.
• What are your spiritual goals during this current time in your life?
• How have you helped someone overcome a persistent temptation? Have you been willing to let someone do the same in your own life?

This devotional © 2021 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.