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.
1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT
Understanding that there is always a way out when facing temptation is crucial. However, overcoming temptation often seems difficult due to the devil’s craftiness. Believers feel overwhelmed by temptation because the devil constantly fights to ensure we don’t win. But, thanks be to God, our text shows His faithfulness. God will not allow us to face a temptation we cannot handle. He will never permit a temptation we are unable to overcome. We have the power and grace from God to overcome. However, we must recognise that we play a role in overcoming temptations. Since temptation often begins with a thought, the quickest way to neutralise it is to divert our attention and affection.
For instance, if someone is tempted to steal because of a large sum of money nearby, the first step is to remove oneself from that situation. The scripture advises us to flee from all appearances of evil. We shouldn’t attempt to test our strength against temptation by staying close to it. Following scripture, we must instantly move away from such situations. Divert your attention from the thought of sin. Don’t repeatedly dwell on it in your mind, as the battle for sin is won or lost there. Whatever gets your attention will get you.
Job declared, “I have made a covenant with my eyes; why then should I look upon a young woman? (Job 31:1 NKJV).” Similarly, David prayed, asking God to keep him from paying attention to worthless things (Psalm 119:37). This is why it’s vital to think about things that are pure, just, and good. Shifting our minds away from anything that deters us from overcoming temptations is essential. We naturally gravitate towards what we focus on, so the more we think about something, the stronger its hold on us becomes. Change your thoughts and flee from environments that promote unrighteousness. This is the part you must play in overcoming temptations.
