Happy Thursday, y’all. Have you read my devotion today, “God’s Love Changes Everything.” It’s sure to encourage you! Love is what every one of us need. And guess what? No matter what you’ve done or what’s been done to you, God LOVES you and there’s nothing you can do about it! No sin and no temptation can separated you and me from God’s love. All we can do is stand in awe of it, bow to it, and receive it. Doing so will change you’re life. But don’t stop there. Draw a line in the sand today and decided to end that struggle with temptation too! Read on…
After preaching a strong sermon on withstanding temptation, a woman approached the pastor with a request.
“Will you pray for me to stop smoking.” She whispered in his ear.
To her surprise, the pastor answered, “No.” “When you decide you love God more than smoking and rely on His power instead of your own, you’ll stop.” He added.
My pastor told that story many years ago. It influenced my life greatly. Every time I was tempted to do something, say something or neglect something I should do because of temptation, I’d ask myself this question. “Who do I love more God or the thing that tempts me?”
I asked that question because I was unsure about the answer. I believed that I loved God. Yes! Yes, I do love God. So why couldn’t I conquer the temptation? I was trying to defeat the lure in my own strength. Every time I’d fail, I would pray something like this: I’m sorry God. I promise to do better next time.
Sound familiar?
You and I can’t do better—not next time, not the time after that—not any time. We can only conquer the impossible in God’s strength. How do we do that? We do it just like Jesus did—with the Word of God.
First, let me assure you that temptation isn’t a sin until we give into the lure. Since we don’t want to give in, we must stop the process the moment we feel tempted to do the unthinkable. Jesus used the Word of God when Satan tempted Him on the mountain. Following His example is a sure way to success for us.
Here are some verses to memorize and use when facing temptation:
- Hiding God’s Word in our hearts equips up to stand firm. “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you” (Ps 119:11, NIV).
- Christ understands our struggle and teaches us to call out for mercy in our time of need. “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need” (Heb 4:14-16, NIV).
- We have power over sin! “For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace” (Romans 6:14, NIV).
- Resist the tempter. “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7, NIV).
- Daily dress in God’s protective armour. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one” (Eph 6:10, 11, 16, NIV).
- You’ve got the power! So use it! “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1John 4:4, NIV).
That’s good news! You and I have the power in us to overcome ANY temptation!
Add your favorite verse for overcoming temptation in the comment section and enter to win a copy of “Confessions of Good Christian Girl” and my book, “An Untroubled Heart.” I’ll announce the winner on Friday!
Kendra @ www.abusywomanslife.com says
This is one of my favorite verses. When I read it I feel my body literally filling up with His power.
Psalm 91:1-16
Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow if the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him. For He will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease. He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.
Blessings,
Kendra
http://www.abusywomanslife.com
Cindy Greganti says
I actually use two ‘sayings’, the first based on 1John 4:4. I remind myself “Greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world.” I’ve also started reminding myself (from Lysa T’s information) that food was created for me to enjoy. I was not created to be enslaved to food. Obviously food is one of my greatest temptaions, but I think this can applied to any temptation as were not created to be enslaved, but to live free in Christ. Thank you for the wealth of verses you added to my ‘verse banks’ and the reminder again that temptation is about is that, a temptation to sin. We have the power, in Christ, to make the right choices. We just need to call on that power!
Debbie Genua says
We want to please those who loves us. “Let the King be enthralled by your beauty; Honor Him, for He is your Lord” Psalm 45:11
April says
Phillipian 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
L F says
I struggle with the sin of opening my mouth and sinful things come out. I finally realized that I need to get my mind/thoughts in order before my mouth will speak the way it’s supposed too. Also, I was trying to do it in my strength. Now, even the way I pray has changed (don’t get me wrong, I still sin but thankfully I do have a forgiving Father in heaven:)
I try to pray Philippians 4:8 to get my thoughts in order (let your thoughts be pure etc.). So that my spirit (including my tongue is under control) I quote Prov. 25:28 “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down and without walls.” This is a good reminder that Satan wants me to be broken down enough that sin can easily come through. Philip. 4:11 “I can do all things (including resisit temptation) through Christ who gives me the strength I need.” It truly is the Spirit’s power working through me, I have no power on my own-it is all of HIM and through HIM and for HIS glory!
I still struggle each day, and fall many times but am learning very quickly that prayer and HIS Word are the two most powerful tools I have to combat Satan and his lies. When I do fall he definitely forgive and picks me back up into His arms once again!
Thank you for the devotion!
Fran says
Psalm 51:10 Create in me a pure heart O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirt from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.
Sarah says
I’m often tempted to take my eyes off God and keep them on my surroundings. I am a major people pleaser, filled with anxiety. This verse has helped me resist that temptation: “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:10
Pam says
Micca-WHAT A MESSAGE
There are many verses about this–but I must say my biggest supporter right now is my little cousin of four—He told me the other day–Aunt Pammie-(he calls me Aunt) don’t be tempted by that chocolate–he put up his hand and said “Stay away from that Temptation” and everyday since that day someone or something has been telling me the same thing. So today when I read your message–I thought Levi–you are right–SAY NO TO TEMPTATION!
Thank You Micca for such a great great message
Blessings
Pam
ANNETTA EVANS says
PAM,
CAN I BORROW HIM FOR JUST A LITTLE WHILE. I HAVE A LOVE A FOOD. KIDS ARE SUCH A BLESSING.
HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY AND SMILE,
ANNETTA
Melanie Croy says
Micca,
Thank you for this amazing encouragement today. I really needed this and I think I am going to have to reread this a couple of times to really get it all! I struggle with being tempted to fear daily. I know that is not how God wants me to live my life…He wants be to be secure in knowing that he is forever with me. When I feel the fear of a situation creep up on me I run right to this verse:
“When you go through the deep waters, I will be with you.
When you go through the rivers of difficulty you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression you will not be burned up;
The flames will not consume you.”
Isaiah 43:2
It brings comfort and strength when I feel as if everything is crumbling down and I am tempted to just give up. Thanks again for such encouragement and for the list of verses!
Prayerfully,
Melanie
Grace says
Melanie,
I also am tempted to fear. The Lord gave me the same verse many years ago. I claim Isaiah 43:1 too. “Fear not for I have redeemed you, I have called you my name thou art mine.”
The other one is 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God did not give us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and a sound mind.”
I pray the Lord will fill you with His strength .
God Bless
Grace
Shelia says
Micca – you have no idea how timely this post was. I have now been smoke-free for 24 hours. It has taken quite a while to finally get my heart and head together to make the decision to quit. But for so long the desire was there to quit but my mind wasn’t ready. The last 3 years have been quite a journey as I went through my divorce and became a single mom to 3 children but I finally feel a freedom from that bond of my emotions from the divorce and the will to move past this temptation of smoking and into a more enjoyable life with my Savior. I am going to print this post if you don’t mind and carry it with me as a reminder that I DO love God more than my temptation. Thank you and God Bless you.
Kathie Cochran says
GOD BE WITH YOU SHEILA through your battle!!! Be equipped with His suit of armor!!!
I too am on the road to quitting. (I lit 1 up mindlessly when I was on the phone this morning) Micca’s blog was so timely, I know it was the Lord leading me to it as this was my first visit to her blog.
Praying for you.
Kathie
Sarah says
Micca,
Thank you for the great devotional! “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 I like that verse…it is through Him. Blessings.
Mary Lou says
Thanks for the great post…….I have a verse that encourages me as well.
So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall. No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. 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 stand up under it. I Corinthians 10: 12,13
Elissa says
“we demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5.
This helps remind me to stop and think. Focus on God’s word and not the temptation. Tell myself truths of scripture so I can’t hear the lies of temptation.
Norma says
This verse has helped me out when temptation comes with food and fear.
2 Timothy 1:7
For the SPIRIT GOD GAVE US does not make us timid, but GIVES US POWER, LOVE AND SELF-DISCIPLINE.
ANNETTA EVANS says
THE BOOK OF JAMES, IS SUCH A BLESSING TO ME AND I GO TO IT EVERYTIME I AM IN NEED OF STRENGTH AND I FEEL WEAK, LOST, ALONE, OR SCARED. I RECITE JAMES 1:2-5 A LOT JUST TO LET MYSELF KNOW THAT I SHOULD GIVE THANKS FOR ALL THESE SITUATIONS NO MATTER HOW HARD THEY SEEM TO BE AT THE TIME. THEN I THINK OF ALL THAT JESUS WENT THROUGH FOR US AND I KNOW I AM NOT GOING THROUGH ANYTHING AS GREAT AS HE DID. THANKS FOR SHARING, ANNETTA
James 1:2-5
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
James 1:12-15
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.
Carol says
“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5 I don’t remember who wrote the song that uses this verse, but that runs through my mind when I think of what Jesus did for ME…and how I should be stong in Him.
Janice Kesterson says
Temptations abound every day, some so subtle we don’t even realize it. When I am tempted, I know if I turn to Jesus I can overcome it. Philippians 4:13
“I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” and that includes saying no to temptation.
Olivia says
Micca, thank you so much for this blog and your Daily Encouragement on the P31 Ministries site! I read them both and soaked each one in — they were just what I needed to hear. I’m thankful for godly women such as yourself whom God uses to reach lives of women in every stage of life.
My favorite verse from this post was definitely Hebrews 4:14-16. They are SUCH powerful verses! And so encouraging. I think sometimes when we have gone on so long in a particular sin, we feel that God is frustrated and annoyed with us, but these verses clearly state that Jesus sympathizes with us, knowing how hard resisting temptation actually is — because He did it himself! We can therefore come to him with confidence, gladly welcoming his mercy and grace to cover our weakness, just like verse 16 says.
Thank you for being faithful in sharing what the Lord has laid on your heart! May God continue to further your ministry.
Elvie says
Luke 9:23. We are daily faced by temptations. We need to put on the full armor of God and that can be achieved by reading His word. Thank you.
Debbie Kendrick says
Micca, Thanks for the encouragement on your blog. The Bible verses are true and when I take them to my heart and receive them, I know that I am stronger. One of my favorite verses is ” I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Phillipians 4:13. I know that I need to blind myself to all ambition but to please Him and He will work in any situation that I have! I hope that you have a blessed day! Debbie
Patty says
I was writing in my journal this morning before I read your devotion, about how I felt powerless to protcet myself from the hurt that others can cause. So I hope you can see how the title of your blog spoke to my heart. While my temptation is in my thoughts, I must remember that “He who is in me is greater than he who is in the world.” I must take shelter in His protection.
The verses I plan to fight this temptation with is in Psalms 61:3 “For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.” And Luke 22:46 “And [Jesus] said unto them, [His disiples] Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.”
I am thankful for people who allow God to speak through them.
Patty
Barb Wall says
Thank you Micca!! Always enjoy reading what you share!!!! Barb wall
Holly says
Love this soo much!
My favorite verse is:
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
—1 Corinthians 10:13
Jennifer says
Psalm 119:45: “I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out YOUR precepts.” This keeps me from temptation by reminding me to seek God’s way over my own and when I do that, I will be free.
Terri Lynn says
I have a few but this one rings out the loudest to me this morning:
2 Chronicles 15:7, But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.
Marcee Rodgers says
I LOVE Psalm 139 23-24
23 Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Kathie Cochran says
This is my first time to your blog Micca, & let me tell you. I asked the Lord to help me with my smoking addiction (38yrs) & when I pulled your blog & started reading, I looked up & thanked God for his answer!!! Being a child of God I know there is no such thing as luck or coincidences. I have been unsuccessful twice in the last year & pray that craving is taken away permenantly!
The verse that really speaks to me is Psalm 119:11:
I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you
I can pray it not only when the urge for a cigarette arises but in every other area of sin.
Thank you for your blog & devotions.
Your Sister in Christ,
Kathie
Jodi says
Thank you so much for writing this devotion! This is my first time to your blog, and it’s just what I needed to hear today.
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24: “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”
Angie says
So hold me, Jesus, I’m shakin’ like a leaf
You have been king of my glory, won’t you be my prince of peace?
amy v. says
I’ve been struggling ever since I had my baby boy 4.5 weeks ago to be close to God. I’m sure I have a fav verse on temptation but can’t think of it. I read thru the bible in 1 yr using the chronilogical bible and that was awesome but I feel soooo distant from God now that Im done. I know it’s me, not Him. Our son is such a miracle- all babies are, so I dont know what’s wrong with me. I miss the closeness I had with Him.
Sherry says
I like this one: Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you James 4:7
I also like to verbally say, “Satan, get away from me. You will NOT win!!!!”
Grace says
Meg,
I Like this one, 1 Corinthians 10:13.
“No temptation has seized you except what is common to man.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 stand up under it.”
I need to meditate on all the scriptures you gave today.
God Bless
Grace 🙂
Michelle Elaine says
Thank you for this post! We all need to be reminded that the love of God is greater than our sin.
The verse I go to is Col 3:17: And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
I ask myself if I can thank God for whatever I am about to do. If I can’t, then I don’t do it…(most of the time.) Sometimes I stumbe, and sometimes I won’t even ask myself. But, the Holy Spirit always lays this verse on my heart. He is so faithuful and merciful. Thanks for the chance to win!
Wendy Blight says
Love these verses, Micca. Thank you for sharing God’s TRUTH with us today. I have been blessed by each and every comment as they pour forth the Word of God. They remind me how great and victorious our God is over all things…especially sin and death!!! I love Patty’s verse…greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world….AMEN!!
Love,
Wendy
Jessica Budd says
Thank you for your words today. Your devotion truly hit home with me and a struggle that I have been facing for a few years now. I claim 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power and love and of a sound mind”.
SAVANNAH says
2 Timothy 1:7- “For God did not give us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and a sound mind.”
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
TWO OF MY FAV VERSES THANKS FOR THE
Marge says
Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God”
Amy says
Phil. 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
StephanieK says
Thanks for this wonderfully empowering devotion. I have so many verses I need, but my favorites are Isaiah 31:1b-2 “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you; when you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.” and Ephesians 3:16 “I pray that from His glorious, unlimited resources He will empower you with inner strength through His Spirit.”
Christina says
Psalm 46:1 is one of my favorites. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Thanks for the devotion!
Christina