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How Does Temptation Relate to Sin?
'Ready Answer' by Martin G. CollinsTemptation, as an appeal to think or do something contrary to God's law, draws us away from truth and virtue through desires that entice us with promises of reward or pleasure. These desires act like bait, luring us closer to the forbidden, much like a fish is drawn from its retreat or a piece of iron is pulled by a magnet; the closer we get, the stronger the attraction becomes. Satan, referred to as the Tempter, uses temptation to entice us into sin, but we are urged to submit to God and resist the devil, causing him to flee from us, as exemplified by Christ. Temptation itself is not sin; it becomes sin only when we accept or submit to it, and it can lead to destruction and death if not resisted. God does not expect us to resist temptation alone; He, through the mediation of our Savior Jesus Christ, understands our weaknesses and allows temptation as a means of purifying us. As we work with Him in overcoming, we become righteous and holy. God promises to help us, backing us with His omnipotent power to overcome temptations that lead to sin, provided we stay close to Him spiritually by watching and praying, and capture every wrong thought before it leads us into sin.
How to Be an Overcomer
Herbert W. Armstrong BookletWHY are we not more successful in living up to God's standard? WHY do we slip and fall at times? Here is how YOU can overcome where you are hardest tempted!
Praying Always (Part Six)
Article by Pat HigginsJesus' command to pray always contains the advice Christians need to strengthen their relationships with God as the return of Christ nears.
Fasting: Building Spiritual Muscle
Article by David F. MaasThough fasting deprives the physical body of nutrition and strength, a proper, biblical fast adds conviction and depth to the inner, spiritual man.
God Works in Marvelous Ways (Part Two)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod's mysteries have been in plain sight from the beginning of time, but carnality has obscured them from mankind.
The Lures Of Satan
Sermonette by Bill OnisickTrout become smart about the lures in their stream. Likewise, we must be cautious, realizing that the lure of sin, regardless of its disguise, means death.
Sin (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughTrue Christianity is no cakewalk into eternal life, but a life and death struggle against our flesh, the world, and a most formidable spirit adversary.
Sin and Overcoming (Part 3): The Battle For Eternal Life
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe Laodicean temperament falls far short in promoting the processes of overcoming and repentance. Spiritual growth and godly behavior take tremendous work.
Trials: Much Needed Experiences
Sermon by John O. ReidGod uses trials to test our hearts, but He never places a trial before us to tempt us. God uses trials we bring on ourselves to draw us closer to Him.
Praying Always (Part Four)
Article by Pat HigginsHow does 'praying always' work? Why is consistent, thoughtful prayer such a powerful tool in the process of overcoming?
Fast-Forwarding the Tape
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by David F. MaasPeople cannot live without hope. To cope with trials, we should metaphorically fast-forward the tape to what comes later.
The Continuous Testing of Our Faith
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe constant tests to which God submits His people enable them to build character by responding in faith. God perfected Abraham's faith through difficult trials.
Battling the Tempter
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingWe all have different life experiences and temptation thresholds. Satan knows how to package sin and temptation to correspond with our greatest weaknesses.
Joseph: A Saga of Excellence (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJoseph's example proves that even the most difficult temptation can be resisted and overcome, though this skill must be developed incrementally.
What is Your Bowl of Lentil Stew?
'Ready Answer' by StaffEach of us has the potential to do just as Esau did. What does the story of Esau selling his birthright for a bowl of lentil stew mean to us?
The Prayers of Jesus
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughChrist's example teaches us to pray humbly in all situations, including decision making, resisting temptation, and acquiring spiritual strength.
Do You Take Sin Seriously? God Does!
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe demise of an institution can result from the irresponsibility of its constituents; if one member sins, the whole body experiences the effects.