The California Collection/TheCaliforniaCollection.cdr/his101/tempt.arj/TEMPT.TXT

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   FACTS ABOUT TEMPTATION YOU SHOULD KNOW
   by Pastor David L.  Brown
   First Baptist Church of Oak Creek, Wisconsin

   INTRODUCTION

   Temptation is nothing new.  It is a fact of life for every person.
But, you don't have to yield to temptation. You can be victorious over
temptation when it comes knocking at your door.  The Lord Jesus Christ
has made provision for your victory.  How do I know?  The Bible tells
me so in I Corinthians 10:13.  It says "There hath no temptation
taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will
not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the
temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be  able to bear it."
The NIV puts it this way -- "No temptation has seized you except what
is common to man.  And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted
beyond what you can bear.  But when you are tempted, he will also
provide a way out so that you can  stand under it." The verse is simply
saying this, Your temptations, trials and problems are not unique. Many
others have faced them too. With God's help, no temptation is
irresistible.  He will keep the temptation from becoming too strong and
promises to show you how to escape the power of temptation so that you
will not fall under its attack. Since temptation is a part of our
lives, we need to know the facts about temptation.

   OUTLINE/OVERVIEW

   I.  THE SOURCES OF TEMPTATION

   GOD -- Gen.  22:1 SATAN -- I Cor.  7:5 THE SINNER -- Prov.  1:10
CIRCUMSTANCES -- Job 5:7 OUR OLD NATURE -- 2 Pet.  2:18

   II.  THE MEANING OF TEMPTATION

   We are going to take a close look at the four Greek words which are
translated "temptation" in the New Testament...

   apirastos [551] (ap-i'-ras-tos) --

   ekpeirazo [1598] (ek-pi-rad-zo) --

   peirazo [3985] (pi-rad-zo) --

   peirsamos [3986] (pi-ras-mos)

   FOCUS

   Let's begin by looking at...

   I.  THE SOURCES OF TEMPTATION

   Actually, there are at least FIVE PRIMARY SOURCES OF TEMPTATION. The
first is...

   GOD -- Gen.  22:1 "And it came to pass after these  things, that God
did tempt Abraham..."

   It is a MUST that you understand the difference between the
temptation of God and the other sources of temptation.  The temptation
afforded us by God is diametrically different than the temptation from
Satan,  the sinner, our old nature or circumstances.  It is different
in PURPOSE and RESULTS.

   James 1:13 says "Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of
God: for God cannot be tempted with evil,  neither tempteth he any
man:" This verse makes it clear that God does not tempt men with the
view of drawing them into sin.

   We have seen that God does tempt his children though. Hebrews 11:17
says " By faith Abraham, when he was tried  (tempted), offered up
Isaac..." So what does being tempted by God mean?  The picture is NOT
of the solicitation to sin.  The picture is the one described in Psalm
66:10 "For thou, O God, has proved us: you have  tried us, as silver is
tried." God does bring the heat of trials into His children's lives
with the view of purifying their lives from sin and building their
Christian character.  As the refiners fire purges the impurities out of
gold and silver, so trials purge the sin out of the believers live.

   Let me define THE TEMPTATIONS OF GOD simply...
   THEY ARE THE TRIALS, PROBLEMS or TESTS God uses to build Christian
   Character in our lives, to refine us, strengthen us, to mature us
   and accomplish his purposes in our lives.  God's objective in any
   tests he initiates is NEVER to entice us to sin.

   The Lord uses testings to make us holy, humble, and strong in the
Lord, not to harm us.  Job understood this.  He said "But he (God)
knoweth the way that I take:  When he hath tried me, I shall come forth
as gold." (Job 23:10).  That's why James 1:2 says, "My brethren, count
it all joy when ye fall into diverse temptations..." for God is
purifying you.  Verse 12 says "Blessed is the man that endureth
temptation; for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life,
which the Lord hath promised  to them that love him."

   Let me approach it from a little different angle.  A teacher gives
you a test to determine whether you have learned and understood the
material taught.  In a somewhat similar way God tests us to see if we
are learning what he wants us to learn.  As in school,  passing a test
is a great source of encouragement and rejoicing.

   Remember, the design of God's temptation in our lives is not to
entice us to evil but to purge the sin from our lives.  The result is,
that we become more like Christ (Romans 8:28-29).


   Let's move on to the other four sources of temptation...

   SATAN -- I Cor.  7:5 "Defraud ye not one another, except it be with
consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer;
and come together  again, that Satan tempt you not for your
incontinency."

   THE SINNER -- Prov.  1:10 "My son, if sinners entice  thee, consent
thou not."

   Peer pressure is one of the most powerful forces in the world.
Probably one of the most dramatic illustrations of the effects peer
pressure can have on an individual is depicted in the life of Peter.

    You will remember that Christ had told Peter "...before the cock
crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice." (Mk. 14:30).  Peter protested
and said no way. But then the crowd came and took Jesus.  The crowds
shouted crucify him, CRUCIFY HIM and they did.  Matthew 26:69-75
graphically records Peter's three denials of knowing and following
Christ.  Peter knew the crowd did not look favorably upon Christ or his
followers.  He was all alone.  None of the others were there to stand
with him so he followed the crowd and regretted it.

   Too often believers give into negative peer pressure compromising
their stand for Christ.  That is a great tragedy. We must resist the
temptation.

   CIRCUMSTANCES -- Job 5:7 "Yet man is born unto trouble,   as the
sparks fly upward."

   You do not have to live very long to discover that circumstances can
play a BIG role in the temptation to sin.  Suddenly, without any
warning, you are plunged into a situation, by no fault or planning of
your own, that presents the GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY TO SIN.  Often, this
opportunity is at your weakest moment, when your will power is down.

   That's exactly what happened to King David.  In 2 Samuel 11 we see
that David had taken a late afternoon nap.  He got up and went up to
the roof of his home, which was not uncommon in that day.  It was there
that he encountered an unexpected circumstance that gave him THE GOLDEN
OPPORTUNITY TO SIN.  He saw a beautiful woman taking a bath.  He gazed
at her intently, which gave fuel to his old nature and inflamed his
lust for her. Ultimately he fell into multiple sins, adultery,
treachery and murder.

   Though maybe not as dramatic or opportune as King David's
circumstance, nonetheless we all will come into circumstances that
present us with THE GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY TO SIN.

   OUR OLD NATURE -- 2 Pet.  2:18 "For when they speak great swelling
words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh (desires of
the old nature), through much  wantonness..."

   NIV says, "For they mouth empty, boastful words and, by appealing to
the lustful desires of sinful human nature,   they entice people..."

   Proverbs 19:3 reminds us "The foolishness of man perverteth his way:
and his heart fretteth against the  LORD."

   Let me put this verse in my own words...  "The foolish desires of
man lead him fall into sin and then his old  nature blames God for it."

   Our Old nature is the primary source of temptation. Though we are
saved, our heart is still deceitful and wicked (Jer.  17:9). Our sinful
nature craves to have its illicit desires stimulated.  It begs for
indulgence. Our old nature set the stage for accommodating the other
sources of temptation...  Satan, sinners and circumstances.

   II.  THE MEANING OF TEMPTATION

   There are four words translated "tempt, temptation, tempted,
tempter" etc.  in the New Testament. They all center around the same
Greek root.  By looking at these words, we will understand temptation
better. There is...

   apirastos [551] (ap-i'-ras-tos) -- "a" means not. "pirastos", [from
3985 - peirazo], means temptable or incapable of being tempted by evil.
 This word is only used once in the New Testament in James 1:13 and
refers to God.  God the Father, God the Son & God the Holy Spirit are
incapable of being tempted to do evil.  "...for God cannot be tempted
(apirastos) with evil..."

   It is clear that God is HOLY.  James 1:17 tells us that Every good
gift and every perfect gift is from above,  and cometh down from the
Father of lights, with whom is  no variableness, neither shadow of
turning." In other words, what comes from God is good or for a good
purpose.  God does not vascilate nor are his motives tainted by evil.

   God is so Holy that he cannot even look on sin. Hab. 1:13 says "Your
eyes are too pure to look on evil; you cannot tolerate wrong."NIV.

   In summary, this first Greek word is used to assure us that God is
beyond temptation.  He cannot be entice or intimidated into doing
wrong. He is thoroughly holy. This also applies to his son, Jesus
Christ. (Note I Pet. 2:22; I John 3:5; 2 Cor.  5:21; Heb. 4:15; 2:18)

   ekpeirazo [1598] (ek-pi-rad-zo) -- "ek" means out and "peirazo"
[3985] tempt or test.  Therefore you have "out test" or thoroughly
test.  This word is used only four times in the New Testament (Mat.
4:7; Luke 4:12; Luke 10:25; I Cor.  10:9). Each time this word is used
is speaks of Satan or sinners tempting the Lord.  What form does that
temptation take?  1) Tempt the Lord to sin 2) Prove that He is evil,
wrong or sinful 3) To take selfish advantage of Him.

   One illustration is Mat.  4, the account of the temptation of
Chirst.  Satan wanted to prove that Christ was a sinner!  He gave
Christ every opportunity to sin. But to no avail.  No weakness,
character flaw or sin could be found in Christ.  That is why Peter
compared Christ to a sacrificial lamb with no blemish or spot (I Pet.
1:19). That is why he can be your redeemer.

   Not only did Satan tempt the Lord but PEOPLE CAN also TEMPT THE
LORD, endeavoring to prove him evil, wrong, or sinful.  I Corinthians
10: 9 says "Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted
[3985], and were destroyed of serpents.  This is referring to what
happened in Numbers 21:4-9.  The Israelites were accusing the Lord of
evil intentions and wrong doing.  They accused God of taking them out
of Egypt for the purpose of killing them in the wilderness by thirst
and starvation.  This was not God's purpose. His purpose was to free
them from slavery and bring them into their own land and prosper them.
But they refused to cooperate. God took them out of Egypt but could not
get Egypt out of them.  Note the result of accusing the Lord of evil
(vs.  6-9). Many of them died. But those who repented and looked to the
brass serpent in faith lived.

   It is DANGEROUS TO TEMPT THE LORD, accusing him of evil intentions,
wrong doing or sin.  Be cautious what you try to blame on the Lord.  Do
not blame the Lord when you yield to temptation and fall into sin.  God
does not take lightly being accused of wrong doing or being implicated
in evil.

   peirazo [3985] (pi-rad-zo) -- This word appears about 39 times in
the New Testament & is translated tempt,  tempted, tempter, tempting,
to prove, examine, try & tried in the KJV.  It can be used in a good
sense or in a bad one.  The meaning depends on who tempts. If it is
God, it is for the purpose of improving someone and never for the
purpose of causing the person to fall.  If it is the devil who tempts,
it is for the purpose of causing the person to fall.

   This word means to test, to prove, to scrutinize, to entice.  It is
used at least four times in a positive sense (John 6:6; 2 Cor. 13:5;
Heb. 11:17; James 1:13). But the word is mainly used of putting someone
to the test in hope that they will fail, a flaw will be revealed, they
will be shown to be evil or make the person turn to evil.  This use of
this word is illustrated in John 8:1-11 (key 6).

   peirsamos [3986] (pi-ras-mos) -- is a closely associated with the
previous word.  It appears at least 20 times in the KJV.  It is
translated temptation(s) and MOST OFTEN REFERS TO SOLICITATION TO EVIL
or ENTICEMENT TO EVIL.  In essence it is THE GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY TO SIN.
I Tim. 6:9-10 illustrate this verse quite well.

   SUMMARY

   From here on out we will be dealing primarily with the solicitation
to evil in our studies.  Though temptation is not sin in itself,
REMEMBER, it is THE GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY TO SIN.

   III.  GOD'S INVOLVEMENT IN ALL TEMPTATION

   Allow me to share some facts you should know...

   SATAN CAN NEVER TEMPT US WITHOUT GOD'S PERMISSION

   Satan and his cohorts are active in the temptation of believers.
Eph. 6:11-12 says, "Put on the whole armour of God, that you may be
able to stand against the wiles (3180) of the devil.  For we wrestle
not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against
powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world,   against
spiritual wickedness in high places."

   Verse 11 speaks of the "wiles" of the devil.  The word used here is
"methodeia" from which we derive our word method.  In other words Satan
has systematic plan he uses to attach the believer.  Those who enact
his plan are spoken of in verse 12.  These are the powerful fallen
angels in the Devils Diabolical Throng.  Satan uses them to set his
booby traps, orchestrate opportunities to sin, and to manipulate
circumstances and people to achieve his ends.

   Satan likes nothing better than to see than the saved,  child of God
succumbing the enticements to sin.  His goal is expressed clearly in I
Peter 5:8 "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as
a roaring  lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." Satan is
on the prowl, looking for weak Christians to attack. Our job as
believers is to be watchful, calm and collected in spirit (sober), be
wide awake and alert not spiritually drowsy because Satan is stalking
you looking for the opportunity to bring about your downfall.(Ill.  a
cautious hunter).

   When we detect the enemy at work we are to "resist steadfast in the
faith..." (vs 9).  That means to stand against him and stand firm in
our faith.  HOW CAN WE DO THAT?  By understanding God's involvement in
all temptation.

   Though Satan and his diabolical forces of evil busy in the business
of temptation, YOU SHOULD KNOW THIS, Satan can NEVER tempt you without
God's permission.  Job 1 (key 9-12) & 2 (key 1-6) makes that clear.
Even the trials that Satan instigates are under the control of God.
That should encourage us.

   THE LORD SETS THE BOUNDS OF TEMPTATION/TESTING

   There is another principle that comes into focus in the book of Job
also.  That is, the Lord sets the parameters or bounds of the
temptation.  (Job 1:12; 2:4-6) God does not allow Satan unrestrained
access to His children. That's a comfort to me!  I thank God for his
hedge of protection (Job 1:10) and setting the bounds of temptation.

   There is no better illustration of this principle than what happened
in Daniel's life.  Read Daniel 6:4-23. The key verse is 22, "My God
hath sent his angel, and hath  shut the lions' mouths, that they have
not hurt me..." You will note that God did NOT rescue Daniel from the
problem.  He was put in the Lions' Den. But God DID set a boundary.  He
did not allow the Lions to have dinner at Daniel's expense.  This only
proves my point... GOD IS INVOLVED IN ALL TEMPTATION, SATAN CANNOT
TEMPT YOU WITHOUT GOD'S PERMISSION & GOD SETS THE BOUNDS OF ALL
TEMPTATION.

   GOD WILL NOT ALLOW TEMPTATIONS BEYOND WHAT WE CAN STAND

   Before I was saved I was in the dominion of a terrible taskmaster,
Satan.  When I trusted Christ as my Savior I was rescued from the
dominion of the devil and adopted into the family of God and my sins
were all forgiven (Col 1:13-14).  This is true of all believers!  Our
Heavenly Father knows us well and loves us just the same.  Psa.
103:13-14 says "Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord
pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth
that we are  dust."

   I am thankful to be in the family of a loving God.  The word
"pitieth" (7355) in the KJV paints a wonderful picture of the kind of
Heavenly Father we have.  The word means to soothe, to fondle, to
cherish, to love deeply, to show compassion, to have mercy.  The Lord,
our creator knows more about us than we know about ourselves.  He cares
about us and remembers our origin...dust.

   With that in mind, I Cor.  10:13 comes into focus  "...God is
faithful who will not suffer you to be  tempted above that ye are
able..." God knows our limits and guarantees He will control the nature
and intensity of our tests and temptations.  But, keep in mind that our
trials & temptations are not based on what WE THINK we can stand, but
upon what HE KNOWS we can stand.  God knows just how hot to let the
furnace to get.  He watches carefully and his fingers are on the dial
that regulates the temperature of the "fiery trials" we are going
through.

   When Paul was "pressed beyond measure, " God gave him the grace
necessary to meet the demands of the occasion.  (2 Cor. 1:8-10; Phil.
4:13).

   God does not sent trials or allow temptations that are heavier than
we can bear.  If he did, we would have a right to say, "God, I can't
take it anymore.  I've had  it!" We would have a right to be bitter or
resentful, to wallow in self-pity, to fight, divorce or drown ourselves
in alcohol.  But that is NOT the case. The temptations that come our
way and the trials we encounter can faced victoriously.  REMEMBER, God
is involved and will tailor them for our benefit and his glory.

   SUMMARY

   So far we have looked at THREE THINGS THAT GIVE ME CONFIDENCE WHEN
CONSIDER FACING TEMPTATIONS & TRIALS

   1.  SATAN CAN NEVER TEMPT YOU WITHOUT GOD'S PERMISSION

   2.  THE LORD SETS BOUNDARIES ON TEMPTATIONS & TESTING

   3.  GOD WILL NOT ALLOW TEMPTATIONS BEYOND WHAT WE CAN WITHSTAND


   THE OPERATION OF TEMPTATION by Pastor David L.  Brown

   James 1:14-15 "But every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his
own lust, and enticed.  Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth
forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth  forth death."

   THE OPERATION OF TEMPTATION

   A.  THE OPPORTUNITY TO SIN

   The Bible tells us that Satan is "the god of this world." (2 Cor.
4:4). This world is teeming activities,  invitations, audio and visual
stimuli that yield opportunities to.  I John 2:16 identify these
opportunities as, THE LUST OF THE FLESH, THE LUST OF THE EYE & THE
PRIDE OF LIFE.

   What causes an individual to respond to THE DEVIL'S BAIT?

   B.  THE DESIRES OF THE OLD NATURE

   "every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his OWN  LUSTS..."
vs 14

   Within each of us there is the capacity to respond in evil ways.
What is the root of that capacity?

   --Jeremiah 17:9 call it the deceitful, wicked heart.

   --Ephesians 4:22-24 calls it the old man which is corrupted by
deceitful lusts (desires).

   --Mark 7:20-23 list some of the defiling desires of our heart.

   Temptation begins in the heart, the Old Nature!  The source of our
EVIL DESIRES is our old nature.  Sinful behavior originates in the
heart.  We are able to be solicited to evil (tempted) because our Old
Nature, our deceitful heart is packed full of illicit desires, just
waiting to be activated and nourished.

   C.  ATTRACTION: OPPORTUNITY BROUGHT TO OUR ATTENTION

    "every man is tempted when he is DRAWN AWAY..." The true mechanics
of temptation are set in motion when you NOTICE THE BAIT.  James says
they are "drawn away." You old nature brings to your attention the
opportunity to sin.

    You have heard it said, "Temptation is not sin." That is true, IF
you see the opportunity to sin but say NO!  Ben Franklin put it this
way, "It is easier to suppress the  first desire than to satisfy all
that follows." The time to defeat temptation is when the opportunity to
sin first presents itself. Say no quickly and move along. Bring your
mind under control immediately (2 Cor.  10:4- 5).

   Johsua 7:19-21 Illustrates my point.  Achan "SAW" his opportunity to
sin but did NOT say no.  He moved onto the next step...ENTICEMENT.

   D.  ENTICEMENT: THE OPPORTUNITY CONSIDERED

   "every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lust, and
ENTICED.

   Enticement is when we stop and consider the opportunity. Someone has
said, "Watch out for temptation.  The more  you see of it, the better
it looks!" It is allowing your heart to dictate instructions to your
mind and your mind begins to desire the "BAIT" offered.  People often
rationalize at this point "why" they take advantage of this opportunity
to sin.

   That's exactly the picture of what happened to Achan.  He "COVETED"
(2530) the things he saw.  That word coveted means to long for; to
desire; to have an excessive,  uncontrolled, selfish desire.

   J.  Wilbur Chapman said, "TEMPTATION IS the Tempter looking through
the keyhole into the room where you are living: SIN IS your drawing
back the bolt and making it  possible for him to enter."

   When you pause to think over the opportunity to sin and you let your
deceitful old nature nourish those thoughts, you have drawn back the
bolt, making it possible for Satan to enter.

   The word "ENTICE" in James actually means, to catch with bait.
Enticement is the point where the fish considers the bait, opens his
mouth and moves to take the bait.

    The next step...ENTRAPMENT

   E.  ENTRAPMENT: THE OPPORTUNITY ACTED ON

    "Then when lust hath CONCEIVED it bringeth forth sin..." vs 15

   The word "conceive" means to seize or to grab hold on. It expresses
the idea that you can't help yourself.  It is at this point that your
OLD NATURE IS CALLING THE SHOTS.  It is like a fish who takes the bait
and then you jerk the pole and the hook is set.  Suddenly, the fish is
caught. It is helpless to do anything.

   This is illustrated by the story of Sampson.  He kept toying with
sin.  Getting closer and closer to telling Delilah the secret of his
strength.  Finally he tells her and she cuts off his hair.  Then the
Philistines come upon him.  At first he does not realize he is caught.
He struggles, but to no avail. He was caught (Judges 16).

   F.  ACTIONS: SIN IN FULL BLOOM

    "Then when lust hath conceived it bringeth forth SIN..."

   Achan SAW, COVETED and finally TOOK and HID.  The original
temptation acted upon blossomed into sinful actions.

   When your old nature is allowed to rule your life will be
characterized by the things listed in Galatians 5:19- 21

   G.  THE CONSEQUENCES

   "When lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and  sin, when it
is finished bringeth forth DEATH." vs 15

   When you let any sin grow to full age, the end will always be death!
 In our next message we will share steps to victory over temptation and
besetting sin.


   DESIGN FOR VICTORY IN THE BATTLE AGAINST YIELDING TO TEMPTATION
   by Pastor David L.  Brown

   2 Corinthians 10:4-5 "For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal,
but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; Casting
down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against
the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the
obedience of Christ;"

   INTRODUCTION

   I took my wife to what I call a "sit down restaurant" this past week
and realized just how much our INSTANT SOCIETY and affected me.  I'm so
used to eating at McDonalds, Arby's, Rocky Rococo's or Ponderosa that
it is almost unnerving to WAIT for the food.  I am so used to having my
food NOW!  I,  along with most Americans, have adapted to our NOW
SOCIETY.

   That got me to thinking about all the things that surround my life
and reinforce this NOW PHILOSOPHY. Let me name a few...

   I often shave with a disposable razor.  I use throw-away pens.  I
light my grill with an instant ignite torch. Most lunches I eat off of
paper plates.  It is much easier to clean up that way.  I can get
instant cash with a credit card.  At our house there is an instant hot
water tap which I can make a cup of instant hot chocolate.  If I am at
the church I just get a disposable cup and pop it in the microwave and
almost instantly I've got steaming hot chocolate.  Then there is "Ready
Reference" at the central library where I can find out the answer to
most any question. In addition, I use the zip code number, weather
number, the sports number, the time number and even Dial-A-Devotion.
If I want to go for the BIG stuff I can call the massive Compuserve
computer and come up with the latest, detailed information on
mega-subjects and then print it out on my computer.  There are all news
stations on radio and t.v. that I can trun on at will and instantly
find out what is going on in our world.

   Living in an instant society certainly has enjoyable advantages.
BUT, the repercussions of this philosophy loom like a TROJAN HORSE over
our society.  Let me explain what I mean.  First, we become used to
IMMEDIATE GRATIFICATION. Then we come to EXPECT IMMEDIATE
GRATIFICATION.  Finally, the philosophy sneaks unto areas of our lives
where it does not belong and does great harm.

   This philosophy has infiltrated our personal and national financial
outlook.  We want what we want NOW. Personal debt and the national debt
are at an all time high.  Consider how it has affected "family
planning." If a woman conceives and the child does not fit into the
picture, then get an abortion.  Personal gratification takes precedence
over the child's life.

   This INSTANT, NOW philosophy has infiltrated the minds of many
married folks.  If problems come along and cannot be worked out
instantly, they pull the plug on the marriage rather than take the time
and expend the effort to work out the situation.

   Perhaps you are wondering what all of this has to do with our study
on TEMPTATION.  Simply this. Innumerable Christians have allowed the
INSTANT GRATIFICATION, NOW PHILOSOPHY spill over into their theology.
They want 1-2-3 formulas for instant spirituality.  They want Christian
Growth without effort. They want victory over temptation and habits
with no exertion,  strain or pain.  And too many Christians give up too
easily when their brand of effortless Christianity fails to yield
instant success.  They become disheartened, discouraged, depressed
often blaming God for their dilemma.

   We must GET BACK TO BIBLE CHRISTIANITY and realize that LIVING FOR
THE LORD IS A LIFETIME BATTLE.  That truth has been expressed in many
ways in the scriptures.  I Tim. 1:18 says "war a good warfare..." I
Tim.  6:12 says "Fight the good fight of faith..." Heb.  12:1 says
"...let us run with  patience the race that is set before us." Jude
wrote "you  should earnestly contend for the faith..."

   God wants us to be on the front lines all of our lives.  He wants us
to keep slugging it out.  (See Colossians 3:1-16 & Ephesians 4:17-32.
The Christian life is a marathon race and we do not reach the finish
line until we go to be with the Lord!  This picture is brought clearer
into view when we consider Hebrews 12:1-4.  This passage almost sounds
like the popular sports saying of our day...NO PAIN, NO GAIN.

   NOW, TAKE A BREATH...  I went through all that so you would not get
the idea that I have a neat little instant formula that, if followed,
will make you an over night Super Christian with a capital "S".  But,
if you follow these suggestions, they will provide the DESIGN FOR
VICTORY IN THE SPIRITUAL BATTLE AGAINST TEMPTATION AND SINFUL HABITS.

   I.  BE SURE YOU ARE ON THE WINNING TEAM -- SALVATION

   The teams are contrasted in Ephesians 2:1-20.  Satan's team is the
losing team while Christ's team is the winning team.

   Romans 8 explains the benefits of being a believer.  We fight from a
position of victory, we do not fight for victory.  We know the outcome
of the war!  We are fighting a defeated enemy.  We are "more then
conquerors" through Christ verse 37 says.

   Are you on the winning team this morning?  Are you on Christ's team?
Have you received Christ as you Savior?

   If you have not received Christ, you are still on the devil's team.
Look at the end of the devil and all of his team members. (Revelation
20:10-15).

   II.  KEEP IN TOUCH WITH THE COACH -- PRAYER

   I was surprised the other day when I was watching the news.  I saw
the story of a woman on the WPGA tour telling how she, a previous
winner, was working with a coach at an area golf course to improve her
game.  She was talking with him, telling him her weaknesses and asking
for help.  The truth is, the best athletes in the world consult their
coach regularly.  A self sufficient athlete does not usually make it
very far.

   Just as an athlete must keep in contact with his/her coach, so the
Christian must keep in contact with the Lord by PRAYER if he or she
wants to live a victorious Christian life.  What areas should we pray
about?

   1.  "...Lead us not into temptation..." Mat. 6:13

   I believe several things are involved here.  First, the Lord knows
our weaknesses.  I believe this is a prayer asking God not to allow
temptations to come into our lives that we would be prone to fall for.
We need to pray "Lord, please control the circumstances in my life so I
do not come into opportunities that would attract  me to sin."

   Second, since Satan must have God's permission before he can
interfere with the child of God, it is a prayer entreating God NOT TO
GIVE HIS PERMISSION.

   2.  "...Deliver us from evil..." Mat 6:13

   This is a prayer for victory over evil and the evil one. Sadly, many
people never ask the Lord for victory over besetting sins.  We need to
pray for victory. "Lord, we come in Jesus name and through His blood
asking you to remove the desire for ________ and give us the victory.

   3.  "If we confess our sins..." I John 1:9

   We must confess our shortcoming and keep the fellowship with our
Lord alive if we want to win the battle over sin.

   III.  YOU MUST WANT TO WIN -- DESIRE

   I am a collector.  Among other things I collect antique bottles, old
tools, rocks and some where along the line I picked up an old paving
brick.  This brick has been with me for probably 15 years.  Every time
I get ready to move I come across this brick and say to myself, "You
ought to get rid of this dumb brick." It serves no practical purpose.
It is heavy and gets in the way. But I never get rid of the old brick.
I kind of like it. I've gotten attached to it over the years.  I didn't
really want to get rid of it. Consequently I never did.

   Many of us have sins in our lives that are like my old brick.  We
know they weight us down. But we never really decide that we are going
to get rid of it.  I can tell you if you never purpose in your heart to
overcome sinful habits, overthrow recurring sins or resist temptation
in a vulnurable area, you will NEVER do anything about them.

   You will never quit smoking.  You will never control your anger.
You will never conqueror your fear. You will never stop drinking.  You
will never refrain from listening to rock music.  You will never lick
bitterness or any other sinful habit if you do not come to the
realization that it is WRONG and PURPOSE IN YOUR HEART TO GET RID OF
IT. You must want to win.

   That's what Daniel did.  Note Daniel 1:8-16. God honored Daniel's
decision and interceded for him.  I believe he will do the same for us
if we purpose in our hearts to gain the victory over temptation and sin
in our lives. Which brings me to my next point...

   IV.  RECOGNIZE THAT SOMEONE IS ROOTING FOR YOU -- SUPPORT

   When Steve was playing basketball we used to go to as many of the
games as possible.  One of us always tried to get there.  Now Karla is
playing volleyball and the same holds true there.  Why?  Is it because
we have a great love for the game?  No!  But we do have a great love
for our daughter and we want her to know that WE ARE ROOTING FOR HER.
We are in her corner cheering her on. If you have ever played sports,
you know the encouragement that can be.  It is particularly helpful
when things aren't going well and you'd like to give up.

   Folks, I want you to know that the Lord Jesus Christ is in your
corner.  He's rooting for you. He's cheering you on.  He's saying,
"Come on, you can beat that sin in your life.  You can give up that
habit. You can say no to temptation.  I did it and I will give you the
power to do it too." I believe that is the point of Hebrews 12:1-2. In
the struggle to get rid sins and things that would encumber us from
running the race of life for Christ you will note that we are to "LOOK
UNTO JESUS THE AUTHOR AND  FINISHER OF OUR FAITH..."

   Why look to HIM?  Because he's cheering us on!  He wants you to be
victorious. AND He's willing and able to help. Hebrews 2:18 says "For
in that he himself hath suffered being tempted he is able to succour
(to aid, relieve, to  help) them that are tempted."

   Now, some folks have the mistaken idea that the Lord is a COSMIC
KILL-JOY.  They have the idea that he waits with bated breath for his
children to sin and then goes after them like a duck on a June Bug.
That is just NOT the case.  Christ knows our struggles and he can
identify with them.  He gives his children an open invitation to come
to him for mercy, grace and help (Hebrews 4:15-16).

   The Lord is rooting for us.  He wants us to keep on fighting the
sinful actions, attitudes and habits in our lives.  He's saying, "You
can do it!  Hang in there. Go,  Fight, WIN!" It is clear that GOD IS
FOR US.  Look at Romans 8:31-39.  That should clear up any questions if
you doubted that the Lord is rooting for us.

   V.  DON'T ADD FUEL TO THE FIRE

   Romans 13:14 says "Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no
provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts  thereof." The verse is
simply saying, "Don't add fuel to  the fire that would arouse your
sinful desires."

   Some people just don't use their heads when they are trying to get
the victory over sinful habits.  I remember working with an alcoholic
who I discovered kept a bottle  stashed away for "emergencies." He'll
never get the victory.  He made provision for fulfilling his sinful
habit.

   Many young couples have fallen into sexual sin because they
mistakenly thought they could make out and know when to stop, but had
as much success as someone trying to put out a fire with gasoline.

   We should avoid involving ourselves in things that would stimulate
us to sin.  Proverbs 4:14-15 adds some insigt...  "Enter not into the
path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men.  Avoid it, pass
not by it,  turn from it, and pass away." There are some things we
cannot do & places we cannot go if we are to live for the Lord.  Don't
put yourself in pecarious situations that would excite you to sin.


   REVIEW

   To this point we have considered five points in the battle plan for
victory over temptation & sinful habits...

   I.  BE SURE YOU ARE ON THE WINNING TEAM -- SALVATION

   When a person comes to know Christ as Savior he/she is set free from
the bondage of sin.  Sin no longer has the authority to rule in the
believers life (Rom.  6:14). Now we have the ability and responsibility
to serve our loving master, Christ (Rom. 6:17-19 & 22).

   II.  TALK TO THE COACH -- PRAYER

   We should ask the Lord...  1) To protect us from being tempted in
our weak areas 2) To deliver us & give us the victory over besetting
sins in our lives and 3) Share with the Lord our downfalls and ask His
forgive- ness & help.

   III.  YOU MUST WANT TO WIN -- DESIRE

   An individual will never get the victory over an area of sin in
their life until they first, admit that they have a problem and
secondly, they want to gain the victory it.

   IV.  RECOGNIZE SOMEONE IS ROOTING FOR YOU -- SUPPORT

   The Lord is cheering you on to victory.  He's in your corner.  The
wants you to win and in fact has provided the tools for your victory.

   V.  DON'T ADD FUEL TO THE FIRE

   Get rid of hidden provisions for sin.  An individual will never get
victory over bitterness if they relive the offence every time they see
the person who offended them.  An alcoholic will never get the victory
over booze if the keep a bottle stashed away for emergencies.  A person
will not gain victory over sensuality & lust if they just keep a few
favorite rock & porno videos and magazines.  We are clearly caution
"...make no provision for the flesh..."(Rom. 13:14). Get rid of your
stash.

   ADDITIONAL BATTLE PLAN POINTERS

   VI.  USE YOUR MOST POWERFUL SPIRITUAL WEAPON -- GOD'S WORD

   A friend called up the other day and asked my son and I if we wanted
to do some target shooting.  We decided that we would give it a try.
What an arsenal we had. A 12 gauge, 16 gauge, a 20 gauge, a 38 and a
223 assault rifle.  You would have thought we were going to hold off a
small army.  We had a lot of fire power. But weapons like that have NO
effect when it comes to fighting spiritual battles against sin.  So
what weapons do you use to fight you spiritual battles?  You use your
SWORD! Ephesians 6:17 says "And take the helmet of salvation,  and the
sword (3162) of the Spirit, which is the word of  God."

   The only offensive weapon that we have is THE WORD OF GOD.  Hebrews
4:12 says "For THE WORD OF GOD is quick (living) and powerful, and
sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder
of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of
the thoughts and intents of the heart."

   Before I go any further, I want you to understand what kind of
weapon is in focus here.  There are two Greek words for SWORD.  There
is the "romphaia"(4501). This refers to the large broadsword (Rev.
1:16). Many have that in mind when they think of The Word of God.
Actually that is NOT what is in focus.  The second Greek word for sword
is "machaira" (3162).  A "michaira" an assassins dagger, more like a
hunting knife.  It was used for stabbing at close range.  The
implication is, the knife precisely slits through all in its path to
get to "the heart" of the matter.

   Let me illustrate.  I am an avid small game hunter. When I shoot a
squirrel or rabbit I use my knife carefully to clean and skin the
animal.  A large sword would be awkward and uncontrollable.  But my
small sharp knife is maneuvered quickly and easily to cut away what I
need to.

   Now, perhaps you are wondering what all this has to do with
defeating sin in your life.  We are to use specific passages of
scripture as weapons, daggers, to get to the heart of our temptations
and sins.  Note, if you will, how Christ did this in Matthew 4:1-11.
Christ quotes Deut. 8:3; 6:16 & 6:13. Satan misquotes Psa. 97:11-12.
Simply stated, God's Word, The Bible is a powerful weapon against
temptation & sin.

   In light of that, we should MEMORIZE IT.  Psa. 119:11 says "Thy word
have I hid in my heart, that I might not  sin against thee." Memorizing
scripture is a deterrent to sin.  It is like stocking up ammunition.
When temptation confronts you, fire off the Word.  Make sure to
memorize scriptures that deal with your problem areas.

   Meditating on the truths of The Word and applying it to our lives
will purify your conduct also.  Psalm 119:9 says you can cleanse your
conduct by living according to the Word Of God.

   2 Tim.  3:16 says the Bible is profitable as a guideline for belief
(doctrine).  It is valuable as a standard by which you can measure
whether something is right or wrong (reproof).  It gives helpful
insight for correction problems or overcoming sin in your life
(correction). Finally it reveals principles that we are to live by
(instruction in righteousness.

   Daily reading, studying, memorizing, meditating & obeying the Bible
is of great value to you.  Dr. William Sadler M.D.  said "Bible reading
on a daily systematic basis has therapeutic value.  If its verses are
assimilated into the mind, they can accomplish more than  any sedative
or tranquilizer."

   Use specific scriptures in your hand to hand combat against sinful
habits and temptation.  Christians songs are also helpful.

   VII.  GUARD YOUR MIND

   FIRST, we must learn to LIMIT OUR CURIOSITY.  Romans  16:19 says
"...I would have you wise unto that which is  good, but simple
concerning evil." There are many areas that we don't need to know
about.  Far too many people have allowed their curiosity to get the
best of them. They delve into the depths of sin only to discover that
doing so has heightened their desire to sin.

   SECOND, the gateway to our minds is through our senses. Proverbs
4:25 warns us that we are to be diligent about guarding our heart.
Usually when the Bible speaks of our heart it is talking the portion of
our mind that acts like the switching station in a train yard.  The
switching station operator directs the trains in the way they should
go.  Our heart puts our thoughts "on track" and gets them going.  The
gateway to our mind and our heart is through our senses.  Our eyes and
our ears are the two MAIN GATES to our mind and heart.  Therefore, we
need to be very careful what we let into our minds through them because
the data we allow into them determines how we will think and behave
(Prov. 23:7).

   Job must have understood this connection because in 31:1 he makes a
agreement with his eyes.  There some habits you will never break until
you do the same.

   SUMMARY

   Two additional keys that will help you be victorious over temptation
and sinful habits are...  1) USE THE WORD OF GOD,  THE BIBLE. Read it,
study it, memorize it and meditate on it. 2) GUARD YOUR MIND.  Limit
your curiosity and be careful what you let into your mind through your
senses.


   DESIGN FOR VICTORY
   Part of a continuing series on how to conqueror habitual sin and
   gain victory over temptation.

   INTRODUCTION

   Opportunities to sin are all around us.  If the believer is not
walking in the power of the Spirit he or she may take advantage of an
inviting looking temptation.  I would like to tell you that all sin is
bitter, unenjoyable and miserable but that is not always the case.  The
person who lashes out in bitterness against an enemy may experience
personal gratification.  Those who engage in illicit sex may find it
pleasurable.  The gossip savors every tainted tidbit of information.
The drug user loves the high. The fibber appreciates how his lies serve
him.  The rebelling youth delights in doing his own thing.  The person
who takes the Lord's name in vain or talks dirty may enjoy the power or
acceptance experiences.  The list goes on. THERE MAY BE PLEASURE IN SIN
(albeit temporary & short lived) BUT THERE IS ALSO A PRICE TAG!  Guilt,
hindered fellowship with the Lord, loss of our testimony and
enslavement, just for starters for the believer. Choosing to sin is
like eating LAYS POTATO CHIPS, you can't eat just one!  Sin is habit
forming.  Ben Franklin had it right when he said, "IT IS EASIER TO
SUPPRESS THE FIRST  DESIRE THAN TO SATISFY ALL THAT FOLLOWS." I believe
every Christian is struggling with some sinful habit in his or her
life.  We are all in the same boat. And every time we repeat that sin
it is like driving a nail into a block of wood.  The more you repeat a
particular sin, the harder it is to get it out of your life.  Hebrews
12:1 urges us to "lay aside...the  sin which doth so easily beset
us..." PULL OUT THE NAIL!  Why? So we can "run with patience
(endurance) the race that is set  before us." We have looked at SEVEN
THINGS WE CAN DO TO PULL THE NAILS OUT of our lives, giving us victory
over temptation and besetting sins.

   1.  BE SURE YOU ARE SAVED 2.  PRAY ASKING FOR GOD'S HELP 3.  HAVE A
HUNGER TO PREVAIL 4.  RECOGNIZE GOD IS ROOTING FOR YOU 5.  DON'T ADD
FUEL TO THE FIRE 6.  USE YOUR SPIRITUAL WEAPON, THE WORD OF GOD 7.
GUARD YOUR MIND

   Today I want to add several more things to this list.

   VIII.  LOSING & CHOOSING FRIENDS

   The Old King James says "Be not deceived: evil communications
corrupt good manners." That was clearly understood in the 16 & 1700 but
not today.  The New King James says "Don't be  deceived: 'Evil company
corrupts good habits." I Cor 15:33

   Humanly speaking, probably the most powerful influence in the world
on a person is that persons peer group, those who he/she hangs around
with.  Our friends influence our action, attitudes and opinions.
Proverbs 13:20 says "He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: But
the companion of  fools shall be destroyed." (Tell of Haiti rehab
program & the importance of dropping old friends and making new ones).
When a person decides to live for the Lord, I Pet 4:4 often describes
their friends reaction -- "They think it strange that you do not run
with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you." I can tell
you this...

   If you want victory over alcohol & drugs, you are going to have to
quit fellowshipping with those who drink & use drugs.

   If you want victory over gossip you are going to have to break ties
with you gossip friends.

   If you want victory over rock music, you are going to have to sever
ties with your friends who listen to the stuff.

   If you want victory over wrong sexual relationship you are going to
have to separate from those who do it & encourage it.

   If you want victory over any besetting sin you must dissociate with
your friends who are involved in that sin.  As 2 Cor.  6:17 says "Come
out from among them and be ye  separate, saith the Lord and touch not
the unclean thing..." God's blessing is on those who refuse to walk
with the ungodly (Psalm 1).  Further, it may be necessary withdraw from
believers who are not living as they ought (2 Thes.  3:6, 11 & 14-15).

   BUILDING AN ACCOUNTABILITY BOND

   Galatians 6:1-2 "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye
which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness;
considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.  2) Bear ye one
another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of  Christ."

   James 5:16 "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for
another, that ye may be healed.  The effectual fervent  prayer of a
righteous man availeth much."

   Giving a trusted friend the right to check up on you and ask you how
you are doing in your "war" gives you a powerful motivation resist
temptation, knowing you must give account. Many secular organizations
use this biblical principle of accountability with great results.
Weight Watchers & AA are just a few. It is clear that the right friends
are important. Godly friends will lead you into righteousness.  Ungodly
friends will draw you into sin.  Choose your friends carefully.

   IX.  KNOW WHAT TO STAY AWAY FROM & WHAT TO GET AWAY FROM

   Proverbs 4:14-19 (read)

   There are places that a believer should stay away from because the
activities that are engaged in do not glorify God.  I remember making a
poor choice years ago that took me a long time to live down.  They were
having a surprise birthday party at a bar just down the road from where
I worked. "Everyone" was going to be there but me.  I did not want to
go and knew I should not. It would not be a good testimony. Everyone
knew I was a Christian and most knew that I was studying for the
ministry.  All evening different ones would come up to me and tell me
why I should go.  Finally I said I'd stop in and wish Grace Happy
Birthday and leave.  That's what I did AND that was a BIG mistake.
Some tried to buy me a beer, just one won't hurt.  I refused. Several
of the gals did everything in their power to get me to dance with them.
 No way.  I was married. They knew that. The center attraction moved
from Graces Birthday to causing a Christian to compromise.  One even
asked me to give her a ride home. "For they sleep not, except they have
done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to
fall." Prov. 4:16.  I was there 10 or 15 minutes. NOT LONG!!!  Just
long enough to tarnish my testimony.  It was the talk of the shop for
two weeks, though I had done nothing wrong while I was there those few
minutes.  The truth is, I didn't belong there in the first place.

   If you are going to avoid temptation there are places you will not
be able to go.

   If you are going to keep your testimony there are places you cannot
go.

   If you are going to get victory over a besetting sin there are
places you will not be able to go.

    ...A gambler would not go with his friends to a party where they
were going to play poker or bingo  ...An alcoholic would stay away from
where they served booze.  ...A person who wanted victory over
pornography would stay away from areas in the shop they knew it was.
...A former gossip might not be able to attend the coffee clutch where
it took place.

   I hope you see what I am driving at. There there are times to LEAVE
immediately when a temptation presents itself.  We should leave any
place,  anything or anyone that would stimulate thoughts, curiosity or
actions encouraging us to become involved in unscriptural sexual
activities.  I Cor. 6:18 says "Flee fornication..." Joseph of old is a
good illustration of putting this into practice. I Cor.  10:14 says we
should "Flee idolatry." We should leave any place, anything, any
activity that would stimulate thoughts, curiosity actions encouraging
us to become involved in unscriptural worship (ie - the occult,
witchcraft, cults,  false teachings etc.) I Tim 6:10-12 says we should
Flee the love of money.  If the offer or opportunity of money is
causing you to lose a proper perspective get out of there.  Let me
illustrate what I mean by using this story.  Once a bachelor asked an
attractive married woman to give him a kiss for a $100 dollars.  She
said, "Yes!" Next he said "Would you kiss me for $5.00?" She  said,
"No!  What kind of woman do you think I am?" He said, "We already know
what kind of woman you are.  Now we are just  quibbling about the
price."  2 Timothy 2:22 says "Flee also youthful lusts." I think this
is referring to foolish immature actions that would not be pleasing to
the Lord.  Years ago I used to drive bus. While sitting in the bus barn
having a coffee before our run sometimes the old dirty jokes would
start to fly.  I had to learn to get up and leave.  Why?  Because if
you are in the same room where mud is being thrown it won't be long
before you get muddy.

   If we want to say NO to temptation, there are places to stay away
from and places to get away from.  May the Lord give us the discernment
to know the places to stay away from and when we need to flee.  And may
we not behave like Lot's wife when it is time to leave.