Recognizing Temptation

“Recognizing Temptation: Resisting with Grace”

Good morning Ekklesia Family

Imagine a fisherman. He carefully chooses the bait, casts the line, and waits. The fish is drawn in—not by force, but by desire. In the same way, temptation doesn’t grab us by the throat—it lures us by appealing to our own desires. The enemy knows our weaknesses and wraps the bait in what looks good but leads to harm.

James 1:13–15 reminds us that God is not the author of temptation. Instead, temptation is the result of our own desires that, when conceived, give birth to sin—and sin, when it matures, brings death. It's a spiritual progression: desire → deception → disobedience → death.

But 1 Corinthians 10:13 brings hope: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful…” He promises that we will never face temptation without a way of escape. God doesn’t just sit back—He provides the strength, the door out, and the Spirit within.

We need spiritual discernment to recognize the bait before we bite. That means staying close to the Word, sensitive to the Spirit, and rooted in community. When temptation comes, pause and ask: What desire is this feeding? What escape is God showing me right now?

In practical terms:

When tempted to gossip, choose silence or words of blessing.

When tempted by lust, flee and focus your eyes on Christ.

When tempted by discouragement, declare God’s promises aloud.

The Holy Spirit is our Helper—not just to escape temptation but to overcome it and grow stronger through it.

Father, I surrender my desires to You. Cleanse my heart, renew my mind, and help me walk in the power of Your Spirit. Thank You for always providing a way of escape. Teach me to choose righteousness over momentary pleasure. Strengthen me today to live holy and bold. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you’ve been walking alone and weary, know this: Jesus is your Way out and your Way forward. He took your sin to the Cross so you could walk free, filled with power and purpose. Today, surrender your life to Him. Say yes to His call. Join the Ekklesia—His body, His family, His mission.

Ekklesia, I LoveUmorethanUknow

— Peace and Blessings

Pastor Stephan Kirby | EkklesiaChristianLife.org