DEVELOPING A FAITH THAT WORKS YOUNG ADULT CELLS OCTOBER 2006

HOW TO WIN OVER TEMPTATION

Member’s Notes

I. Introduction Objective:
At the end of this lesson, you
Today, we will look at some biblical keys to overcoming temptation in will be able to:
Jas 1:12-18. The Bible talks about 2 kinds of testings: trials and
1. Identify the 5 biblical
temptation. principles to overcoming
temptation.
Is there any difference between trails and temptations? What do you do
think?
2. Understand 4 steps in
which temptation
operates.
3. Remember James 1:12.

God tells us that we have to pay a price to overcome temptation but at

the same time there are great rewards for enduring temptation. Verse
12 explains that when we learn how to handle temptation, we are going
to be a lot happier. Blessed is the old English word for “happy”. When
we learn how to handle temptation, we will be rewarded for eternity.
The big question is “how”? James gives us 5 biblical principles to
overcoming temptation in today’s lesson.

12Blessed is the man who

II. Five Principles to Overcoming Temptation perseveres under trial,
Read Jas 1:12-18. because when he has stood
the test, he will receive the
crown of life that God has
The first principle is Be _______________. (v13 and 1 Cor 10:13)
promised to those who love
What are the things do you think James wants us to be realistic about? him.

13When tempted, no one

should say, "God is tempting
me." For God cannot be
The second principle is Be __________________. (v13b) tempted by evil, nor does he
James wants us to take responsibility for ourselves including our own tempt anyone; 14but each
bad choices. Why do you think James needs to say this? one is tempted when, by his
own evil desire, he is dragged
away and enticed. 15Then,
after desire has conceived, it
gives birth to sin; and sin,
when it is full-grown, gives
The third principle is Be ________________. (v14) birth to death.
The word “dragged away” and “deceived” (v16) in the passage suggests
that we need to be ready for temptation because it doesn’t warn us
16Don't be deceived, my
when it’s coming. How can we be ready for temptation? Share. dear brothers. 17Every good
and perfect gift is from above,
coming down from the Father
of the heavenly lights, who
does not change like shifting
The fourth principle is Be __________________. (v 17) shadows. 18He chose to give
Turning your mind off something bad to something good. What should us birth through the word of
truth, that we might be a kind
we be refocusing on?
of firstfruits of all he created.
Jas 1:12-18

The fifth principle is Be ___________________. (v18) 13No temptation has seized

We need to turn to God and allow Him control over our lives. What are you except what is common
some things that are hindering you from allowing God to take control of to man. And God is faithful;
he will not let you be tempted
your life?
beyond what you can bear.
But when you are tempted,
he will also provide a way out
so that you can stand up
under it.
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DEVELOPING A FAITH THAT WORKS YOUNG ADULT CELLS OCTOBER 2006

1 Cor 10:13

III. Four Steps the Devil Uses to Tempt Us

Temptation can come at any point in our lives. We can be ready for
temptation by understanding how temptation operates. James tells us
the four steps the devil uses to tempt us. (Jas 1:14-15) The four steps
hinges on the four words in these 2 verses:

a) _______________
b) _______________
c) _______________
d) _______________

God created all of us with desires. How does the devil turn these good
desires to evil?

Deception means “dragged away” and is often used in fisherman term

as “lured by bait”. How does this help you understand how the devil
tempts you?

Why do you think people still fall into temptation when they already
knew it is a temptation? Discuss.

Temptation always starts with the mind. Why is dealing with our
thought life so important to prevent us from disobedience?

IV. Resources to Resist Temptation

What are some tools that have helped you resist temptation? Share.

What commitment do you need to make to God and to yourself in order

to protect His good name as you represent Him to the world around
you?

V. Conclusion
Share one bible verse that can help to remind you to make the right
choice in overcoming temptation.

Pray and ask God to help each of you to be realistic about your
vulnerability to sin. Pray that God will give you courage to take
responsibility for your actions, and to overcome temptation.

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DEVELOPING A FAITH THAT WORKS YOUNG ADULT CELLS OCTOBER 2006

Remember James 1:12

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