Overcoming Temptation: Staying Strong in the Faith

Temptation is a common struggle that every believer faces, but the Bible provides us with the tools we need to overcome it. Jesus himself was tempted in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11), and He set the perfect example of resisting temptation with the Word of God. Temptation, while inevitable, does not have to dominate our lives. With God’s strength and guidance, we can stand firm against the enemy’s schemes.

Understanding Temptation

James 1:13-15 offers a sobering perspective on temptation: “When tempted, no one should say, ‘God is tempting me.’ For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”

Temptation is not from God, but from our own desires. When we give in to temptation, it leads to sin, and unchecked sin leads to spiritual death. Recognizing the nature of temptation helps us resist its pull.

For more on resisting temptation, visit https://www.christinus.org.

Using Scripture to Fight Temptation

When Jesus was tempted by Satan, He responded each time with Scripture. In Matthew 4:4, He said, “It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”

Scripture is one of our most powerful weapons against temptation. Memorizing and meditating on God’s Word allows us to counter the enemy’s lies with the truth of the Gospel.

For a guide to using Scripture in your spiritual warfare, visit https://www.christinus.org.

Relying on God’s Strength

1 Corinthians 10:13 offers encouragement: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

God will never allow temptation to overcome us without providing a way of escape. His faithfulness is a constant source of strength, and by relying on His power, we can stand firm in our faith.

For help on relying on God’s strength in the face of temptation, visit https://www.christinus.org.

The Importance of Forgiveness: Healing and Restoration

Forgiveness is a cornerstone of the Christian faith. Jesus taught us to forgive as He forgave us (Ephesians 4:32). Forgiveness is not always easy, especially when we’ve been hurt deeply, but it is essential for our spiritual growth and emotional well-being.

God’s Forgiveness of Us

Matthew 18:21-22 records an exchange between Peter and Jesus: “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.’”

God forgives us repeatedly, no matter how often we fall short. This boundless grace sets the standard for how we are to forgive others. The act of forgiving does not negate the hurt we’ve experienced, but it frees us from the bondage of bitterness and resentment.

For more on understanding God’s forgiveness, visit https://www.christinus.org.

Forgiving Others as God Forgives Us

In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus teaches us to pray, “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12).

When we forgive others, we reflect God’s love and mercy. Forgiveness releases us from the emotional prison of anger and allows us to heal. Holding onto unforgiveness only hurts us, but letting go enables us to experience freedom and peace.

For tips on forgiving others, visit https://www.christinus.org.

The Healing Power of Forgiveness

Ephesians 4:31-32 encourages, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Forgiveness brings healing and restoration. It restores relationships, both with others and with God. It helps us to move forward in life, unburdened by the past.

For encouragement in the healing process of forgiveness, visit https://www.christinus.org.

Living Out the Great Commission: Spreading the Gospel

The Great Commission is a call to all believers to go into the world and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). It is not just for missionaries or pastors but for every follower of Christ. Living out the Great Commission involves sharing the Gospel, teaching others about Christ, and living a life that reflects His love.

The Call to Make Disciples

Jesus’ command to His disciples is clear: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20).

We are all called to participate in this mission. This doesn’t necessarily mean going to a foreign country, but it involves sharing the Gospel in our homes, workplaces, and communities.

For practical steps on making disciples, visit https://www.christinus.org.

Sharing the Gospel in Your Everyday Life

Acts 1:8 gives us a roadmap for spreading the Gospel: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Being a witness for Christ starts in our own “Jerusalem” – the people around us in our daily lives. It could be through a conversation at work, helping a neighbor, or showing kindness to a stranger. We are called to share the love of Christ wherever we are.

For ideas on how to share the Gospel in everyday life, visit https://www.christinus.org.

The Promise of God’s Presence in the Mission

Jesus promises, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

We are not alone in this mission. God equips us with His Holy Spirit and walks alongside us as we spread His message of hope. When we step out in faith to fulfill the Great Commission, we can trust that God will provide the strength, wisdom, and opportunities we need.

For encouragement in fulfilling the Great Commission, visit https://www.christinus.org.