How To Overcome Temptation

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Temptation is a universal struggle that every Christian faces. It can come in many forms, whether through thoughts, actions, or circumstances that draw us away from God’s will. However, overcoming temptation is possible when we rely on God’s strength and the spiritual tools He provides. By doing this, we can see clearly how to overcome temptation through Him.

By resisting temptation with Scripture, utilizing spiritual tools for battling temptation, and staying strong in the face of challenges, we can lead a life that honors God.

Overcoming Temptation

Resisting Temptation with Scripture

The Bible is a powerful weapon against temptation. Jesus Himself used Scripture to resist temptation during His time in the wilderness. In Matthew 4:4 (NLT), when Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread, He responded, “No! The Scriptures say, ‘People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” This example teaches us that knowing and quoting Scripture can help us stand firm against temptations.

To resist temptation effectively, it’s important to immerse yourself in God’s Word. Here are some key steps:

  • Memorize Scripture: Commit key verses to memory that specifically address areas of temptation in your life.
  • Meditate on God’s Promises: Regularly reflect on the promises found in Scripture that remind you of God’s faithfulness and strength.
  • Use Scripture in Prayer: Incorporate Bible verses into your prayers, asking God to give you the strength to overcome specific temptations.

By equipping yourself with Scripture, you can respond to temptation with the truth of God’s Word, just as Jesus did.

Spiritual Tools for Battling Temptation

Overcoming temptation requires more than just willpower; it requires spiritual tools that help us stay grounded in our faith. Ephesians 6:11 (NLT) advises, “Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.” This armor includes prayer, faith, and righteousness, which are essential in resisting temptation and knowing how to overcome temptation.

Some spiritual tools that can help you battle temptation include:

  • Prayer: Regular communication with God strengthens your resolve and keeps you connected to His power.
  • Accountability: Surround yourself with fellow believers who can provide support and hold you accountable in areas where you struggle.
  • Avoidance: Recognize situations or environments that trigger temptation and take proactive steps to avoid them.

These tools, when used consistently, can help you stay strong and resist the pull of temptation.

Staying Strong in the Face of Temptation

Staying strong in the face of temptation involves more than just a momentary decision; it’s about maintaining a lifestyle of vigilance and dependence on God. James 4:7 (NLT) encourages us, “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” This verse highlights the importance of both humility and resistance in overcoming temptation.

To stay strong, it’s important to keep your focus on God and His purpose for your life so that you may know how to overcome temptation. Regularly engage in practices that draw you closer to Him, such as worship, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. By keeping your spiritual life strong, you reduce the power that temptation has over you.

Remember, overcoming temptation is not about being perfect but about relying on God’s grace and strength to help you make the right choices.

 

Looking for ways to stay strong in the face of temptation? Explore practical strategies with the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today.

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How to Trust God’s Timing

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In a world that often demands instant results, learning to trust God’s timing can be one of the most challenging aspects of our faith journey. Yet, trusting in God’s perfect timing is essential for living a life of peace and purpose.

Whether you’re waiting on God’s plan to unfold or trying to understand His workings in your life, embracing the truth that God’s timing is always perfect can transform your perspective and strengthen your faith.

Trust God’s Timing

Trusting in God’s Perfect Timing

The Bible teaches us that God’s timing is impeccable, even when it doesn’t align with our own plans. Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NLT) reminds us, “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.” This verse encourages us to trust that God has a specific time for every event in our lives, and that His timing is always for our good.

Trusting in God means surrendering our own timelines and desires to Him. It involves believing that His plan is better than anything we could imagine, even when it requires waiting. This kind of trust is built through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and a conscious decision to place our confidence in God’s wisdom rather than our own understanding.

Waiting on God’s Plan

Waiting is often the hardest part of trusting God’s timing, but it is also the most crucial. During times of waiting, it’s easy to become anxious or discouraged, but the Bible offers us encouragement and guidance. Isaiah 40:31 (NLT) states, “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.”

Here are some ways to wait on God’s plan with faith and patience:

  • Pray for Patience and Wisdom: Ask God to give you the patience to wait and the wisdom to recognize His timing when it arrives.
  • Stay Active in Your Faith: While waiting, continue to serve God and others. This keeps you focused on His work rather than your worries.
  • Reflect on Past Faithfulness: Remember the times when God has come through for you in the past. Let these memories bolster your trust in His timing.

By waiting on God’s plan with a heart full of trust, you can find peace and assurance, knowing that He is working behind the scenes for your benefit.

Understanding God’s Timing in Life

Understanding God’s timing requires us to shift our perspective from our own limited view to a more eternal outlook. God sees the bigger picture, and His timing is always aligned with His perfect will. Proverbs 16:9 (NLT) says, “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” This reminds us that while we may have our own plans, it is ultimately God who guides our lives according to His divine timing.

To better understand this, it’s important to cultivate a spirit of trust and surrender. Accepting that God’s timing may not always make sense to us, but it is always for our ultimate good, helps us to rest in His sovereignty. This understanding allows us to live with greater peace and less anxiety, knowing that God’s timing is perfect and His plans for us are full of hope and purpose.

 

Struggling to trust God’s timing? Learn how to embrace His perfect plan with the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today.

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Living in the Light: A Christian’s Guide

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Living in the light is a powerful metaphor used throughout the Bible to describe a life aligned with God’s truth and presence. To live in the light means to walk in the ways of Christ, embracing His teachings and allowing His light to guide our paths.

This concept is central to the Christian faith, as it calls us to leave behind darkness—symbolizing sin, fear, and ignorance—and step into a life filled with purpose, clarity, and divine direction. But what does it truly mean to live in the light, and how can we apply this to our daily lives?

What It Looks Like Living In The Light

Walking in the Light of Christ

Walking in the light of Christ involves more than just avoiding sin; it’s about actively pursuing a life that reflects Jesus’s teachings. In 1 John 1:7 (NLT), we read, “But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.” This verse emphasizes the connection between living in the light and maintaining a pure, authentic relationship with God and others.

To walk in the light of Christ, consider these key practices:

  • Daily Devotion: Spend time in prayer and Bible study to keep your heart and mind focused on God.
  • Community Involvement: Engage with a faith community where you can share your journey and encourage others.
  • Acts of Service: Reflect Christ’s love by serving others in your daily life.

These practices help us stay grounded in our faith, ensuring that we continue to walk in the light and reflect God’s love in all we do.

Biblical Meaning of Living in the Light

The Bible frequently uses the imagery of light to represent truth, holiness, and the presence of God. In Psalm 119:105 (NLT), we are reminded, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” This verse underscores the importance of God’s Word in guiding our lives. Living in the light means allowing Scripture to illuminate our paths, guiding our decisions, and shaping our character.

Living in the light also involves a commitment to transparency and authenticity. In John 3:20-21 (NLT), Jesus explains, “All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed. But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants.” This passage challenges us to live openly before God and others, embracing the light of truth rather than hiding in the shadows of sin and deceit.

Christian Life and Light

Incorporating the light of Christ into our daily lives requires a consistent and active relationship with God. This means prioritizing time in prayer, studying the Bible, and participating in fellowship with other believers. These practices help to keep our spiritual flame burning brightly, ensuring that we remain on the path of righteousness.

Living in the light is not just about personal holiness; it’s also about being a light to others. Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT) calls us to be a light in the world: “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” As Christians, we are called to reflect the light of Christ through our actions, spreading His love and truth in a world that desperately needs it.

 

Living in the light of Christ is a daily commitment that requires both faith and action. It’s about choosing to follow God’s path, embracing His truth, and letting His light shine through us in all that we do.

 

Ready to let your light shine brighter? Download the Playbook for Level 5 Friendship today.

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Bad Can Be Good | Facing Your Blitz Weekly Video Devotion

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Can something “bad” turn out good for other people? Check out the answer in the life of a guy who got attacked, arrested and falsely imprisoned.

Game Plan:

“Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else, and that most of the brothers and sisters, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.” Philippians 1:12-14, NAS

Time Out:

What is your first thought when something “bad” happens?

Is it, “Darn it. Why me?”

Or, try this thought: “God, this is a blitz.

What is the opportunity to accomplish Your purpose and increase your fame through this?”

God’s purpose for us is simple – to become more like Jesus and help other people meet Jesus and become more like Him.

Go Deep:

Write yourself a mission statement that reminds you that your purpose in life is to do God’s purpose – love Him and love others.

Let each “bad” thing that happens be a blitz. Ask God to show you its opportunity and give you the strength to use it for His bigger purpose.

God’s purpose for us is simple – to become more like Jesus and help other people meet Jesus and become more like Him.

Stay Connected:

To get this video and devotional guide delivered to your inbox each Monday, SUBSCRIBE TODAY.

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Download FACING YOUR BLITZ Discussion Guide

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UBUNTU-A Team Identity | Facing Your Blitz Weekly Video Devotion

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Do you think a lot about yourself and the plans you have for yourself? You need some UBUNTU.

Game Plan:

“For [together] we are God’s masterpiece [a plural identity of complementary togetherness]. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10, NLT

Time Out:

Think about the contrast between “UBUNTU” (I am because we are) and “I am the captain of my own fate”. Individualism is anathema to God. He is three in one; Father, Son and Holy Spirit – relationship personified. He made us to be interdependent, not independent, and that happens best when we identify as part of a His team, a body of people.

Go Deep:

Ask God and think deeply about who you need to be grateful for. Thank them for what they mean to you. Who do you need to affirm and include in your planning and actions? Think of yourself as part of a team, part of a body. Don’t act alone. Live for the benefit of others, not just yourself.

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Stay Connected:

To get this video and devotional guide delivered to your inbox each Monday, SUBSCRIBE TODAY.

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And, Like us on FACEBOOK and follow Jeff on Twitter

Download FACING YOUR BLITZ Discussion Guide

 

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Paradox of Forgiveness | Facing Your Blitz Weekly Video Devotion

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Steve Largent’s in the Hall of Fame, but this reconciliation stands taller. Watch how apology leads forgiveness.

Game Plan: 

“And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:24, ESV

Time Out:

Holding on to unforgiveness and bitterness has been likened to “drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.”

Forgiveness happens in the heart, but reconciliation happens person-to-person.

Those conversations are hard. That’s why Steve Largent’s apology to his dad who’d left the family was so powerful. It broke the ice. It built a bridge. It softened his dad.

Forgiveness happens in the heart, but reconciliation happens person-to-person.

Go Deep:

Keep in mind that most people are doing about the best they can with the tools they have. Jesus knew that about those who killed Him. If you have maturity, and especially if you have accepted God’s forgiveness, you can look at your own faults and not just your hurts. Then, you can begin reconciliation by apologizing for even the relatively small things on your part.

Who hurt you? Are you distanced or divided? Take an inventory and consider what you have done or have not done that deserves an apology. Start the reconciliation. There is power in our apologies and our forgiveness?

 

Stay Connected:

To get this video and devotional guide delivered to your inbox each Monday, SUBSCRIBE TODAY.

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Download FACING YOUR BLITZ Discussion Guide

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Ultimate Blitz | Facing Your Blitz Weekly Video Devotion

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Please watch this story. It’s so familiar we easily miss the fact that it is the epic event of human history…and it can change everything about how we live.

Game Plan: 

“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures.” I Corinthians 15:3-4, ESV

“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8, ESV

“He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.” I Peter 2:22-25, ESV

 

Time Out:

Imagine that you or I had to figure out how to save the world, defeat Satan and rescue us humans from death into eternal life. I doubt our plan would have been like God’s. Would we have thought to sacrifice our only child? Would we have chosen to die for others?

What God went through to gain our abundant and eternal life shows that facing intense difficulties, trials and tribulations is a central part of how we must discover God’s good in our fallen world. Jesus faced the ultimate blitz with faith, courage and a focus on blessing others. Do you have those traits? Faith, courage and a focus on blessing others.

Jesus faced the ultimate blitz with faith, courage and a focus on blessing others. Do you have those traits?

Go Deep:

Meditate on these verses today and this week. Enter a dialogue with God this week. Ask Him to show you what He desires for you.

Ask Him to help you do the following:

• To believe and confess Jesus as your only hope for salvation and life.

• To surrender control of your life to Jesus…health, relationships, career…identity, dreams, possessions…secrets, sins and addictions.

• To face the reality that trouble will come and God will meet us there.

• To drop your complaining and pessimism and ask Jesus for His perseverance and confidence to face whatever circumstance and blitzes come your way?

Stay Connected:

To get this video and devotional guide delivered to your inbox each Monday, SUBSCRIBE TODAY.

To get your copy of Facing the Blitz CLICK HERE

And, Like us on FACEBOOK and follow Jeff on Twitter

Download FACING YOUR BLITZ Discussion Guide

 

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From Quadriplegic to Mega-Encourager | Facing Your Blitz Weekly Video Devotion

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Joni Eareckson Tada broke her neck. But her broken neck didn’t break her spirit. Watch how her grief became greatness…God’s way.

Game Plan: 

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21, ESV

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” Genesis 50:20, ESV

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose… to be conformed to the image of his Son.” Romans 8:28-29, ESV

 

Time Out:

God’s has a purpose for us. It’s to become conformed to the image of His Son. To become like Jesus. Evil and bad stuff happens in a fallen and rebellious world. God is not to blame. He is actually the master at converting bad to good. But, we must accept that He loves us and choose to trust Him. That’s what Joni Eareckson Tada did. Jesus was a giver, a healer, a provider of hope…and so is Joni.

Evil and bad stuff happens in a fallen and rebellious world. God is not to blame. He is actually the master at converting bad to good.

Go Deep:

Please remember that God is not our enemy. Nor are other people. Satan is God’s enemy and ours. Take the bad thing that happens and ask God to use it to make you like Jesus…one who suffered but overcame. Take His love and His courage. Give love and encouragement to others. Turn your trial to triumph. Turn your blitz into blessing?

Stay Connected:

To get this video and devotional guide delivered to your inbox each Monday, SUBSCRIBE TODAY.

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And, Like us on FACEBOOK and follow Jeff on Twitter

Download FACING YOUR BLITZ Discussion Guide

 

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Don’t Compare Insides to Outsides | Facing Your Blitz Weekly Video Devotion

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I was jealous of some other guys, and it was really dumb. Watch and read why.

Game Plan: 

““For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic.” James 3:15, NLT

“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.” Proverbs 29:25, NIV

Time Out:

Comparison is a toxic mixture of self-centeredness, jealousy and fear of what others think about you. It’s a trap.

Comparison with other people is a losing proposition. If we judge that we are doing better than others, we are feeding arrogance, the root of sin. If we judge that they are doing better, we feed jealousy and discouragement.

Plus, we are notoriously inaccurate at assessing things. We compare our inner turmoil and angst against our inflated picture of other people’s circumstances, not their inner turmoil and challenges.

Comparison is a toxic mixture of self-centeredness, jealousy and fear of what others think about you. It’s a trap.

Go Deep:

How much comparison is there in your life?

Are you jealous and obsessing about what you want your life to be like?

Is there a boss, a peer, friend or family member whose opinion of you and influence on you causes you to worry, compare or be jealous? That is fearing man more than God. You need to be set free. Tell God exactly how you are comparing or fearing. Ask Him to set you free?

Stay Connected:

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Download FACING YOUR BLITZ Discussion Guide

 

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Pass On the Baton | Facing Your Blitz Weekly Video Devotion

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When your days on this earth are over and you “pass on the baton”, what will you be remembered for? What you intentionally (or unintentionally) pass on today is what you’ll be remembered for tomorrow.

Game Plan: 

“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing” 2 Timothy 4:6-8, NIV

Time Out:

Saul of Tarsus had a huge turn-around in his life. He became Paul, Jesus’ apostle. He lived as an ambassador for Jesus’ message. He modeled following Jesus and gave so much to others.

How about you? What is the baton you want to pass on to your kids or those who follow you?

What is it that you are praying for and living for that will equip the next generation to run their life’s race and win a crown from the Lord Jesus.

Is your faith an honest and visible anchor in your life…something you share with your child or others?

Go Deep:

Is your faith an honest and visible anchor in your life…something you share with your child or others? (This not religion, and it’s way more than morality or out-sourcing your kids to Christian programs at church or school.)

Are you secure in your identity and helping your child or others find their identity? Deeply loved and fully forgiven in Christ…gifted with a story and strengths…called to bless others. That is the foundation of our identity.

Are you helping others find their way to healthy relationships and a winsome picture of marriage? God’s got the blueprints for relationships, marriage, sex and family.

None of us can write letters as inspired as Paul did, but writing letters to your kids may be just one part of the intentionality it takes to pass the baton well?

Stay Connected:

To get this video and devotional guide delivered to your inbox each Monday, SUBSCRIBE TODAY.

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And, Like us on FACEBOOK and follow Jeff on Twitter

Download FACING YOUR BLITZ Discussion Guide

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