Read: James 1:12-15

Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to
you. -James 4:7-8

A study of temptation was conducted at Case Western Reserve University. Some
participants were told to skip a meal before being left alone with a plate of radishes and
a plate of cookies. The radishes could be eaten; the cookies were forbidden.

Everyone resisted the urge to eat the cookies, but in some cases not without a
struggle. Interestingly the temptation made it difficult for them to perform intellectual
tasks immediately after the test.

Dr. Roy Baumeister who directed the research, drew the conclusion that self-control is
"something that gets used up. It needs time to get replenished before you use it
again."

Temptation – the urge to do something we know is wrong – troubles all of us. It may be
some terrible evil, or it may be something we tend to excuse, like impatience, pride,
gossip, or a short temper.

Victory over temptation is not simply a matter of willpower. Self-control is a fruit of
the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23). Our weak human spirit cries out for the Spirit’s strength.

There’s only one sure way to beat temptation. We must rely on God’s help continually.
As we trust Him and do what we know is right, He will guide us into His truth and
holiness.

Vernon C. Grounds

How To Resist Temptation

Use God’s Word (Mt. 4:1-11).

Pray for the Holy Spirit’s help (Jn. 14:26).

Make a daily commitment to walk with God.

EVERY TEMPTATION IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO SAY NO TO SIN AND YES TO GOD.

 OUR DAILY BREAD, Copyright 1999 by Radio Bible Class,

Grand Rapids,Michigan. Used by permission.

 – Geo –

Edwardsburg, MI