Expect Temptation

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. 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 endure it.”
1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)

 What if you had a divine security detail assigned to protect you from temptation?

The Secret Service maintains a 'safe zone' around the President at all times–ideally the size of a football field. Agents create a 360-degree shield, whether the President is moving or still, giving them space to spot and stop any threats before they get close.

One of the most effective ways to fight temptation is to create a safe zone in your life. 

There is no one immune to temptation. You are never too old or too strong to be tempted. Temptation is not abnormal and it is not a sin. 

Today’s verse teaches you that temptation is common and God is faithful to help you through it. 

The first rule you have to follow if you are going to handle and defeat temptation is to expect it. Instead of being taken by surprise, you can start each day with your spiritual antenna on, ready to respond when temptation arises. 

Just as the Secret Service team is equipped with devices to listen and communicate with one another about potential threats, the Holy Spirit has given you the ability to hear Him and respond to possible danger surrounding you. 

How do you create a “safe zone” to thwart any potential threats? When you create boundaries that you will not cross, you establish a safe zone. 

• Are you tempted to stay up for a late-night Netflix binge? Set an early bedtime and tell your spouse or a friend about your decision.  
• Holding a grudge? Establish a protective zone around your heart by praying for that person each day for a month. 
• Tempted to allow someone else to determine how you feel? Take time to journal so you can discern your own thoughts and feelings before interacting.  
• Feeling envious? Create a gratitude list and record three items each morning and evening to help you grow in contentment.

This safe zone contains boundaries that you will not cross, or allow others to cross. It also consists of practices you will put in place to help you avoid temptation. When you are expecting temptation, and ask for the Holy Spirit’s help, you create a perimeter of protection around your life. 

Where do you need to establish a safe zone around your life? Think about the areas where you are most tempted to sin. Once you have identified these areas, create safe boundaries. Let the Holy Spirit partner with you to create a perimeter of protection around your life. 

Prayer: Father, Thank You for giving me Your great and precious promises. Your Word says that I will experience temptation–help me be ready. I praise You for being faithful to give me a way out every time. Help me both expect and endure temptation today through Your power. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.