What practical steps help us "pass by" temptations in our daily lives? The Key Verse “Avoid it; do not travel on it. Turn away from it and pass on by.” (Proverbs 4:15) Recognize the Danger Ahead • Temptation is a path, not just a pothole (Proverbs 4:14–15). • Naming the specific lure—greed, lust, bitterness—robs it of stealth (1 Peter 5:8). • Remember that temptation never comes from God (James 1:13–14). Choose a Different Route • Like Joseph fleeing Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39:12), physically leave the setting that stirs the urge. • Use digital boundaries: filters, accountability software, scheduled offline hours (Matthew 5:29–30). • Rearrange routines—drive a different street, shop at a different time—so the old trigger points disappear. Turn Your Heart as Well as Your Feet • Submit to God before resisting the devil (James 4:7). • Replace the enticing fantasy with gratitude for what the Lord already gave (Psalm 103:2). • Pray aloud; temptation loses power when dragged into the light (Matthew 26:41). Fill the Empty Space with Good • Memorize and recite Scripture—“I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). • Sing worship songs; praise uproots cravings (Ephesians 5:18–19). • Serve someone immediately: send an encouraging text, wash a dish, do a small kindness (Galatians 5:13). Walk with Good Companions • Confess struggles to a spiritually mature friend (James 5:16). • Join a Bible study or men’s/women’s group for steady reinforcement (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Choose entertainment and social media feeds that honor Christ; “bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). Stay Alert and Armored • Put on the whole armor of God daily (Ephesians 6:10–18). • Fast periodically; self-denial tones spiritual muscles (Matthew 6:16–18). • Keep short accounts with God—immediate confession prevents footholds (1 John 1:9; Ephesians 4:27). Daily Action Plan: Passing By in Practice 1. Morning: read a short passage, pray for specific protection (Psalm 5:3). 2. Midday check: text an accountability partner one victory or struggle. 3. Evening audit: ask, “Where did I steer clear? Where did I linger?” Record in a journal. 4. Weekly: review patterns, adjust routes, celebrate God’s faithfulness (1 Corinthians 10:13). 5. Monthly: memorize a new verse aimed at the recurring temptation (Romans 13:14; 2 Timothy 2:22; Galatians 5:16). Passing by temptation is not a single leap but a series of deliberate steps, powered by the Spirit and anchored in God’s unerring Word. |
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