Overcoming TemptationChikamu

Everyone Experiences Temptation

For many of us, it’s hard to see the difference between the temptation to sin and the act of sinning. We feel just as guilty when we are tempted as when we actually sin. But there is a difference between sin and temptation, and it’s important we know this, especially if we struggle with feelings of shame or discouragement when we face temptation. The truth is, that everyone experiences temptation. Even Jesus experienced temptation (more on that tomorrow!). That’s right, as a human being, Jesus—the Son of God—was tempted to sin. But as Hebrews 4:15 tells us, He was “tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.” Note how this verse distinguishes temptation from sin. Jesus was tempted, but he did not sin. Just like Jesus, we can also be tempted and not sin. The sin is not in being tempted; we sin when we give in to that temptation.

The Enemy may try to deceive you into thinking you’ve sinned when you're only being tempted, so he can lead you into thoughts or feelings of shame. Don’t let him. He may use those feelings of shame to lead you into acting on your sin. It is as if he says, “You’ve already messed up by being tempted, so you may as well act on that temptation.” This is a lie and a cunning trap. Remember, everyone experiences temptation—either from our own desires or from Satan himself (the Bible calls him the tempter for a reason!). It’s what we do with that temptation that matters.

The next time you find yourself face-to-face with a temptation to sin, realize that you haven’t already lost the fight. There is still a battle to be won. You can begin to bring Scriptures to mind that remind you of your victory in Christ, call on God in prayer to help you face your temptation, or call a trusted friend or mentor to encourage you and hold you accountable. You’re not alone in your struggle, and neither are you out of the fight just because you struggle. Be strong, knowing Jesus has faced the same fight and He will lead you to victory!

Thought of the Day: How I think about sin and temptation matters. It is not a sin to experience temptation. Whether I sin depends on how I respond to temptation. I will fight the discouraging thoughts that come with being tempted, and hold to the victory I have in Christ.