The Put God First Challenge

Day 18: Overcoming Temptation

Matthew 26

1 Corinthians 6

James 3

Psalm 119:1-40

Day 18: Overcoming Temptation

Father,

I come before You, fully aware that temptation is a reality in my life. Some battles feel small, while others seem overwhelming, but none of them are beyond Your power. Your Word reminds me that I am not alone in this struggle—temptation is common to all, and You are faithful to provide a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13). Thank You for Your faithfulness. Help me to recognize the escape routes You provide and give me the strength to take them.

Jesus, You understand the weight of temptation because You faced it Yourself. When the enemy came against You in the wilderness, You responded with Scripture, standing firm in the truth (Matthew 4:1-11). Teach me to do the same. When temptation whispers lies, remind me to hold onto Your Word as my weapon. Let me store up Your truth in my heart so that I might not sin against You (Psalm 119:11). I want to be like You, standing strong and unmoved by the enemy’s schemes.

Lord, I know that temptation often attacks me in moments of weakness—when I’m tired, discouraged, or vulnerable. That’s why Your Word warns me to stay alert, because the enemy prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). Help me to be watchful and self-controlled, guarding my heart against anything that leads me away from You (Proverbs 4:23). Instead of relying on my own willpower, I choose to put on the full armor of God, so I can take my stand against the devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6:10-11).

I also realize that temptation doesn’t just come from outside influences—it often comes from within. Your Word says that each person is tempted when they are drawn away by their own desires (James 1:14). Lord, transform my desires so that I long for what is good, holy, and pleasing to You. Let me walk by the Spirit so that I will not gratify the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16-17). Help me renew my mind daily, so I am not conformed to the patterns of this world, but instead transformed by Your truth (Romans 12:2).

When the battle feels intense, remind me that I am not powerless. Through Your divine power, I have everything I need to demolish strongholds and take every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:3-5). I choose to flee from temptation and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace (2 Timothy 2:22). I will not let sin rule over me, because You have set me free.

Thank You, Lord, for Your mercy when I fall. When I stumble, let me run to You instead of hiding in shame. Your grace invites me to come boldly to Your throne, where I will receive help in my time of need (Hebrews 4:16). I don’t want to live in cycles of defeat—I want to walk in the victory You have already won for me. Keep my eyes fixed on You, and remind me that through You, I am more than a conqueror.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.