How to Resist Temptation

Notes: How to Effectively Resist Temptation

November 14, 2013

Pastor Greg Laurie

How to effectively resist temptation

Hebrews 4:15-16 (NKJV)

For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. [16] Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

James 1:12 (NKJV)

Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

1. It can be endured.

2. There is a reward for the person who endures it.

Luke 4:4 (NKJV)

But Jesus answered him, saying, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.'"

Luke 4:8 (NKJV)

And Jesus answered and said to him, "Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.'"

Luke 4:10 (NKJV)

For it is written: ' He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you,'

1. Where does temptation come from?

James 1:14-16 (NKJV)

But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. [15] Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. [16] Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.

1- the temptation itself

2- you are now under its power and enjoying the experience.

3- you are almost hooked.

4- the hook is set

5- the deadly effects of sin kick in.

We have three enemies: the world , the flesh and the devil

1 John 2:15-16 (NKJV)

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. [16] For all that is in the world-the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life-is not of the Father but is of the world.

2. When does temptation generally come?

Anytime

3. The enemy focuses his attacks

2 Corinthians 11:3 (NKJV)

But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (NKJV)

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, [5] casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,

5. Where is the best place to be when temptation comes? In the will of God

Luke 4:3 (NKJV)

And the devil said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread."

Luke 4:10-11 (NKJV)

For it is written: ' He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you,' [11] and, ' In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.'"

Psalm 91:11-12 (NKJV)

For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. [12] In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.

6. What is the primary weapon we should use to resist temptation? The word of God

Ephesians 6:17 (NKJV)

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;

Psalm 119:9 (NKJV)

How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word.

Psalm 119:11 (NKJV)

Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.

1 John 1:9 (NKJV)

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Philippians 1:6 (NKJV)

being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;

John 11:25 (NKJV)

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.