To be tempted = to be enticed or lured to do something harmful to ourselves. Temptation in itself is not wrong but Satan’s goal is to get us to sin and harm ourselves or others! It is also important to know God never tempts!

Why temptation works? # 1 Promises to meet a real and basic need in our life!

We need food: So Jesus was tempted to turn stones into bread.
We have material needs: So Jesus was tempted with worldly wealth
by Satan.

When do these temptations become sin? When we make them too high a priority!

Jesus said, “You should not live by bread alone…” ie. At the expense
of your soul & spirit!”

Jesus said, “You should worship God alone and not material wealth!”

Why temptation works? # 2 We feel we can beat the odds and the immediate gratification is well worth it!

We’re tempted to drive home after drinking too much. “I will be okay!”
We’re tempted to cheat or steal. “I won’t get caught!”

But we don’t realize! Temptation (given into) leads to sin and sin always brings forth death! James 1:15

Death may be: Eternal (in the case of the unbeliever)
To an abundant life here on earth---To motivation
To self-esteem---To relationships---Etc. Etc.

What will motivate us to fight harder against temptation? Re-think these!

Personal danger---Danger to your marriage

Danger to your children---Danger to your wife

One final motivation

Falling more in love with God

"God, I am going to do it your way. I am going to honor you with my life even though every fiber of my being says I need this right now! Life is not just about me! You also deserve the right to be trusted by me! You have my best interest at heart!"