Introduction:
My Temptation: --------------------------------------------------
How to Beat Temptation: (James 1:13-18)
- Blame the right person. (Jas 1:13-14)
Genesis 3:12 - The man said, "The woman whom you gave to be with me, she gave me fruit of the tree, and I ate."
Proverbs 19:3 - When a man’s folly brings his way to ruin, his heart rages against the LORD.
Isaiah 63:17 - O LORD, why do you make us wander from your ways and harden our heart, so that we fear you not?
- Say No early. (Jas 1:15-16)
Romans 13:14 - But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
- Focus on God's Gifts . (Jas 1:17)
- Remind yourself of your Identity . (Jas 1:18)
Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK
Hint: Highlight blanks above for answers!
Small Group Discussion
Read James 1:13-18
What was your big take-away from this passage / message?
What excuses have you made - or heard - for giving into temptation? What does James say about who is responsible for our sin?
Why do you think people tend to blame God for their failures?
Are all desires bad (Jas 1:14)? How do you know what is a good desire and what is a sinful desire?
What gifts from God can you focus on when you are tempted to sin?
Breakout
Pray for one another - to resist temptation the way James lays out for us.