Resisting Temptation as a Christian — When Old Habits Try to Come Back
- meetgodattheedgeof
- Mar 24
- 2 min read
James 1:13-15
[13] Don't blame God when you are tempted! God cannot be tempted by evil, and he doesn't use evil to tempt others. [14] We are tempted by our own desires that drag us off and trap us. [15] Our desires make us sin, and when sin is finished with us, it leaves us dead.
Temptation.
Each of us has a sensitivity to certain situations or temptations. It comes from all kinds of things, but it’s important to be aware of it and have a plan to resist when it shows up. That’s a big part of resisting temptation as a Christian—recognizing where you’re vulnerable before the moment hits.
For me, it can be a temptation to get angry with people and talk about them or make fun of them. Especially in crowded places like theme parks. For example, we went to SeaWorld yesterday, and while it was enjoyable, there were people who were very disrespectful. They treated others like they were beneath them or like rules didn’t apply.
That used to make my blood boil.
It’s a real temptation for me to slip back into old habits—making comments, saying things I shouldn’t, or tearing people down in my mind. But I’ve become more aware of that temptation over the years. In that moment, I had to slow down, pray, and choose a different response. That’s what resisting temptation as a Christian looks like in real life—it’s a decision in the moment, not just a belief.
Your temptation might look different. Or it might be what many call “every man’s temptation.”
Whatever it is, understanding that temptation is the natural byproduct of our own desires is the only way to form a plan for successful resistance. If you don’t address the desire, you’ll keep fighting the same battle.
But you are not fighting alone.
Your Heavenly Father is right beside you, ready to give you the strength, grace, and mercy you need to make the right choice. He doesn’t tempt you—but He absolutely equips you to overcome.
That is the power behind resisting temptation as a Christian.
I pray that you will begin to see the desires that create your temptations and have the courage to address them. Not just react—but prepare.
God is by your side, and He will help you.
Thank You, Father, for one more day. Amen.
1 Corinthians 10:12-13
[12] Even if you think you can stand up to temptation, be careful not to fall. [13] You are tempted in the same way that everyone else is tempted. But God can be trusted not to let you be tempted too much, and he will show you how to escape from your temptations.
