Temptation, resisting

Being tempted is not in itself a sin. Sin arises when believers give in to temptation. Scripture urges believers to resist temptation, and gives them encouragement to face it.

Encouragement to those facing temptation

James 1:12 See also Romans 8:37; Hebrews 2:18, Hebrews 4:15–16; James 1:2–3; 1 John 4:4

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.

Finding in God and his word resources to overcome temptation

Daniel 11:32 See also Proverbs 2:1–2, Proverbs 2:12–15; Matthew 6:13 parallel Luke 11:4; 1 Timothy 6:11–12; James 4:7

With flattery he will corrupt those who violate the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him.

Practical suggestions for overcoming temptation

Overcoming temptation through prayer

Matthew 26:41 parallels Mark 14:38, Luke 22:40 See also Matthew 18:8–9; 1 Corinthians 7:5

“Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”

Overcoming temptation through personal discipline

Hebrews 12:4, Hebrews 12:7; 2 Peter 3:17

Encouragements to resist temptation

Galatians 6:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:22 See also Proverbs 1:10–15; Romans 6:12–14

Brothers, if someone is caught in a trespass, you who are spiritual should restore him with a spirit of gentleness. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.

Abstain from every form of evil.

Examples of those who did not give in to temptation

Job 1:22 See also Genesis 39:7–10; Job 2:10; Jeremiah 35:5–6; Daniel 1:8

In all this, Job did not sin or charge God with wrongdoing.

Jesus Christ resisted temptation

Matthew 4:4 parallel Luke 4:4 See also Matthew 4:7 parallel Luke 4:12; Matthew 4:10 parallel Luke 4:8

But Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”