1 Corinthians 10.13 – No temptation has faced 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 up under it.

This verse shows that God can help us resist temptation. Here are some practical tips on dealing with temptation:

• View every temptation as an opportunity to do good and to grow
  Everyone is tempted. So don’t feel guilty about being tempted – we will never be so spiritually mature that we will never be tempted. In fact, the closer you grow to God, the harder Satan will try to trip you up.
• Don’t put yourself in tempting situations. If you know you’re more likely to be tempted if you do certain things (even if those things themselves are not sin), then don’t do them!
• Identify your “pattern of temptation” – When are you normally tempted? Where? With who? How do I feel when I’m normally tempted? Then take steps to avoid or be extra careful when in those circumstances.
• Refocus your thoughts on something else – it’s easier to ignore a temptation than to fight it.
• Fill your mind with good things – choose not to think about evil things.
• Share your struggle with others and ask for prayer and accountability.
• Be armed for the attack – memorize some verses to help you face Satan’s lies with God’s truth.
• Remember that we lack the ability to change ourselves and avoid sin – we have to rely on God’s power! He wants to help you defeat sin, so ask Him for help.

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