Temptation
We all experience desires and temptations that pull us away from what God wants for us. While the world encourages us to satisfy every desire, Scripture reminds us that not everything we do is helpful, and anything we continually give ourselves to can eventually control us. Temptation does not come from God, but His love and grace meet us in our struggle. Through Jesus, we are forgiven, made new, and given the strength to pursue what honors God rather than simply what satisfies us in the moment.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Appetizer
What is something silly you have a hard time enjoying in moderation or somehow it always turns into more than you intended: snacks, games, scrolling, television, or something else?
Main Course
1 Corinthians 10:13
• What does this verse say is true about the temptations we face and how does that challenge the way we think about our own temptations?
• What do you think it means that God will “provide the way of escape’? What might that look like in real life?
• Think about a temptation people commonly face. What might the “way of escape” look like before it turns to sin? Where might God be providing an escape for you, in an area where you regularly face temptation?
James 1:13-15
• According to this passage, where does temptation come from, and not come from? Why does the distinction matter?
• When does this passage say we are tempted?
• Why do you think James describes the progression step by step? How can recognizing that help us when we are tempted?
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
• What does Paul say is true about the bodies of those who belong to Christ?
• Why does Paul connect belonging to God with what we do with our bodies?
• How might remembering that you belong to God change the way you respond when something we desire conflicts with what honors Him?
Dessert - Optional Deeper Dive:
1 Corinthians 6:12-13
• What does Paul mean when he says, “I will not be mastered by anything”? How is being free to do something different from being controlled by it?
• Why is simply being allowed to do something not enough to make it a good choice? Can you think of an example of this? What might be some signs that something is beginning to take control?
Turning Down the Heat – Action Step
This week, identify one temptation or desire that can pull you away from God. Before you face it, decide what your “way of escape” will be, praying, setting a boundary, changing a habit, walking away, or reaching out to someone you trust. When temptation comes, pause and ask; is this helping me honor God, or is it beginning to control me?