If you’re fighting temptation of any kind, let today be the day that you stop fighting it! Why? Because we’re going to help you change your perspective on temptation.
Many of us view temptation as a bad thing. We’re tempted to eat something we shouldn’t, spend money we don’t have, or yield to cravings of our flesh that may not be beneficial for us.
Is Temptation Good Or Bad?
The Bible says that God does not leave us to be tempted without giving us a way out.
1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT says; “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.”
This means temptation is not a bad thing; it’s actually an opportunity to do good! What do we mean by that?
This means, when we are tempted we have opportunity to apply what we’ve learned and walk out what we say we believe.
James 1: 2-4 NKJV says; “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
You see, without a test, there is no testimony. Without facing your temptation face-to-face; there’s no other way to see the righteousness of God working inside of you.
Trials, and temptations in our lives, give us the opportunity to test our faith, and make the right decision. It allows us the opportunity to do good, despite what the enemy meant for evil.
In essence, it is the very evil thing that allows us to grow in our faith and do good for God’s glory. So you see, temptation is actually a good thing!
Make A Decision
We remember a time, when we were offered an opportunity to make extra money. However, we knew if we made that commitment it would interfere with our family time and the time we serve in ministry. So we decided to say no.
Shortly after making that decision, we received an unexpected blessing that allowed us to pay off one of our cars; freeing up a car payment, and in return, it freed up extra money each month without costing us more time.
So the next time you’re tempted, don’t just pray the temptation away. Fight the temptation with faith and choose to make the right decision.
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” ~ Romans 8:28 (NKJV)
~ André and Timberley Gray
My children just had 1 Corinthians 10:13 as a bible verse this week. This is exactly what we taught, temptations is only bad when you don’t choose whats right. Great post!
That’s awesome! What a great lesson for your children to learn while they are are young. Thank you for sharing. ~ Blessings
This is a great article. I never thought of temptation this way; as an opportunity rather than a burden.
Thank you Kim! I love the way you worded that…an opportunity rather than a burden! Just changing our perspective the way we view temptations will make all the difference. ~ Blessings
Wonderful Post, Timberley! Temptations in every form and shape show us which areas we need to work more on, so that through these testing we will be perfected in Christ Jesus
Diana (http://dianasdiaries.com)
Thank you for reading Diana. You make such a great point. When we know our weaknesses it makes overcoming them that much easier. ~ Blessings
Great post! I loved the encouragement and straight to the point and turning what seems difficult to understand it in a positive light. Love the verses you used here! Connecting from Grace Bloggers. Have a great week!
Thanks for stopping by to read Jaime!
Thanks for stopping by to read Jaime!