Overcoming the Test of Temptation – Beloved Women – November 29, 2019
READ
“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26: 41 ESV)
TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT
As a student, I often crammed right before tests. When I knew the test was coming, I put off studying until the last minute, and at times, it reflected in my scores.
This lack of preparation translates into my spiritual life, when I don’t prepare to encounter temptation. Sometimes I see temptation coming from a mile away. Other times, it blindsides me, but God’s word tells us to stay alert, and be ready to resist at all times.
We shouldn’t wait until temptation comes to pray for perseverance. Being ready looks like discerning where we’re vulnerable right now, and asking God to strengthen our resolve in prayer.
“God, lately I’ve been prone to [think/desire (you fill in the blank)]. I know that’s not your will, so please strengthen me in that area, and keep me far from temptation.”
We have the luxury of approaching God with this prayer at any time, so take advantage of it. Trust me. You don’t want to treat temptation the same way I treated my college exams.
PRAY
Dear God, thank You for teaching me how to resist temptation. You know where I am most vulnerable, so please open my eyes to those areas so that I won’t compromise. In Jesus’ Christ’s name, I pray, Amen.
REFLECT
What are some practical ways you can prepare to resist temptation? Is there someone in your life that can hold you accountable?
SHARE
We shouldn’t wait until temptation comes to pray for perseverance.
RELATED RESOURCES
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CONNECT
Find more encouragement from Titania at www.titaniapaige.com and take a look at her “My Devotional Journal” specially designed to simplify spending time with God here.
© 2019 by Titania Paige. All rights reserved.
For more Beloved encouragement including Daily Devotionals, practical advice for everyday Christian living, Bible Studies, and more be sure to visit us at www.belovedwomen.org.
