Recurring Problems, Sin, Addiction (2)
- Bill Fuller
- May 7
- 28 min read
Updated: May 16
This Christian Challenge Will Prove that God Heals and Sets Free Nagging, Recurring Problems, and Addictions Within 40 Days
PART TWO
How 7 Powerful Truths Defeat Temptation
Seven (7) powerful truths will defeat temptation. These 7 truths are Biblical ways that lead you to walk in the spirit and are the FOUNDATION for this 40-day protocol. They take us out of the temptation to the foot of the cross and an encounter with God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. According to the Scriptures, Jesus is the only way to defeat temptations. This is how you are restored from recurring problems and addictions. There are just two ways to respond when facing temptation. You alone determine the path you take. You will either give in to temptation and carry out the desires of the flesh or defeat temptation through the power of Jesus! Therefore, what are these 7 powerful truths?
Step One: Identify Your Addiction or Problem
Step Two: Run to God and Focus on Him
Step Three: Believe the Truth
Step Four: Jesus is Your Example
Step Five; Focus on God in the EXACT Moment of Temptation
Step Six: Take Every Thought Captive to the Obedience of Christ During the PRECISE Moment of Temptation
Step Seven: Be Thankful
Victory takes place when you are tempted, not before and not after.
Foundational Truths Regarding Temptation
Evil is everywhere. It permeates every aspect of your Christian life and culture. But there is a way to overcome evil, and his name is Jesus. This 40-day challenge will teach you how to run to Jesus. Temptation is the tool by which evil encourages and deceives you to succumb to your carnal desires, addictions, idolatries, and pleasures. It conflicts with the Christian between good and evil and reinforces the unbeliever to pursue whatever they want or think. Temptation is not a sin but leads to sin and, eventually, death. The world, the flesh, and the Devil are the primary tools behind temptation. But there is a way to defeat temptation.
Step 1-Identify Your Addiction or Reoccurring Problem
When someone seeks guidance from a counselor or spiritual director, it is often because of a specific issue or problem that needs addressing. God acts as your Divine Counselor and Healer. Thus, we start by identifying a particular issue, sin, or addiction. What is the problem?
Select the Addiction, Emotional, or Psychological Issue You Wish Liberated
Examples would be:
Emotional—anxiety, apathy, fear, worry, and suffering with life circumstances.
Psychological—Depression, any mental dysfunction or disorder
Marital Conflict—abuse, infidelity, divorce, adultery, anger issues, communication
Trauma—past abuse that interferes with living in the moment and intimacy with others.
Addictions—anything that has control over your behaviors (drugs, food, alcohol, sex).
Sexual sin—pornography, rape, pre-marital sex-fornication, sexual abuse (receive/give)
Spiritual - legalism, license, false teachings
Your concern is to speak the truth about the problem that tempts you. This is what keeps you from running to God and believing only God's presence and truth can set you free. God is the only agent of change, healing, and restoration, no one or anything else. It begins with acknowledging the problem and what you're being tempted to do.
Definition of Addiction
Addiction is a complex and debilitating condition characterized by a compulsive and uncontrollable desire to engage in a particular behavior or substance despite adverse consequences. It profoundly impacts an individual’s physical, psychological, spiritual, social, and emotional well-being. The allure of any addiction lies in the temporary pleasure or relief it provides. In most cases, it denies God’s sovereignty and replaces it with the proclivity for self-indulgence and controlling one's life. Therefore, this self-focus creates a powerful cycle of craving, consumption, and withdrawal, weakening you to a vulnerability to temptation and the Devil’s schemes. The earmark of an addict is excessive lying. (for details, please refer to Appendix 2)
There is a lesser-known addiction referred to as Intimacy Avoidance or Anorexia. This condition involves the addict steering clear of intimacy to shield themselves from potential pain and disappointment. It typically manifests with those closest to them, such as a spouse, who holds the greatest potential to cause emotional harm. There are ten methods used to evade intimacy. (for details, please refer to Appendix 3)
Emotional dysfunctions such as depression, fear, anger, worry, and anxiety, can also be categorized as addictions. Instead of being controlled by inappropriate behaviors, these emotions can be attributed to a lack of trust and faith in God. They are motivated by lies, thoughts, inward chatter or voices, cognitive distortion, and false belief systems. There are three sources of lies that war against your journey to wholeness, the world, the flesh, and the devil. (for details, please refer to Appendix 4)
Step Two: Run to God and Focus on Him
The Critical Truth is living in the present moment! You immediately take the presenting issue to God. So how do you live in the moment? You focus all your intentions on God. God does not call us to fix the past or manage the present and worry about the future. God lives in the moment! Yes, He is God of the past, but He doesn’t ask you to live, fix, or focus on the past. Indeed, He is the God of the future, but He doesn't ask you to manage life now to manipulate the future. When the world, flesh, or Devil tempts you. God asks you to focus and run to Him in the moment you are being tempted.
My wife Janean has a saying, “You tell your life story when you make love.” All of life’s experiences, the good, bad, ugly, trauma, and pain end up in the bedroom and affect your sexuality and intimacy with your spouse and God. I also have a saying, “You don’t manage or control your life, so bad things don’t happen, you live life fully in Christ, and when you’re disrupted and tempted, you take it to Jesus.” Both statements deal with how you respond or react to temptations. What you did in the past and now at the moment of temptation will affect your future! Believe me, we know about temptation personally, and in our counseling ministry!
Only Two Ways to Deal with Temptation
There are only two ways to handle or respond to temptation. Every response or reaction to temptation is a variation of these two.
"For My people (those who believe God) have committed two evils: They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, to hew for themselves cisterns, Broken Cisterns that can hold no water” (Jerimiah 2:13).
According to the Scriptures, there are two approaches to handling temptation: first, turn to God, the source of living waters, and second, create your own wells or cisterns that cannot hold water. Addressing temptation without God is considered evil. These actions represent two specific wrongs against God. The first wrong is not turning to God, which means forsaking Him; this might be due to a lack of trust in His power, goodness, and faithfulness. The second wrong is distancing yourself from God and developing (creating, crafting) your own broken cisterns, strategies, and coping mechanisms. Broken cisterns symbolize any method we use to confront temptation through our own strength, independent of God, focusing on self rather than on Him.
What Does it Mean to Focus on God?
Focusing on God is the same as running to God, fixing your eyes on Jesus, calling upon His name with prayers and petitions, and looking up into the heavens where God lives. It is your obedient response to God's calling to come to Him in times of need. An easy way is to think of R&R meaning Rehearse and Remember. Rehearse is to over and over again when being tempted choose, as a willing act of reverence and obedience. to move towards God. This rehearsal develops a habit or pattern for your heart, will, and mind. The more you run to God with your brokenness, the more He will show up to strengthen your faith.
Next, you are to Remember God's Promises. This is where you will speak, meditate, and contemplate the promises of God. Philippians 4:8 says to dwell on things that are true. It would be advantageous to memorize God's promises regarding your specific concerns and weaknesses.
An intimate relationship with the Trinity, not just knowing about Him, reaps benefits far beyond your dreams and expectations. Many Scriptures reveal the promises of God when we trust and run to him with our problems. He will heal the brokenhearted, set captives in bondage free, give hope to the poor, help people see the truth, and set free those who are oppressed, He offers rest for the weary, peace for the anxious (any negative emotion), and grace (love and mercy) to those who run to Him in their time of need.
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me (Jesus) because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed. To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord" (Luke 4:18-19).
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11: 28-30).
"Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:5-7).
"Therefore, let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).
"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart" (Hebrews 12:1-4).
Practical Ways to Focus on God When Tempted
Pray
Be Thankful
Worship and Praise
Sing Your Favorite Song
Say Your Favorite Bible Verse
Do a Collarbone Statement (see Appendix 7)
Rehearse Your Identity "In" Christ
Fix Your Eyes, Gaze, Attention on Jesus
Lift Your Hands
Read the Bible
Remember a Promise from God
Have a Memory Verse Handy
Focus on God's Character
Talk to God and Listen to Him
Remember God's Promises
Step Three: Believe the Truth
What is Temptation?
So, what is temptation? First of all, the temptation is not sinning, although it leads to fleshly living, sinful behaviors, extended bondage, and eventually death. We know this because Jesus, in every way, was tempted but without sin.
"For we do not have a high priest (Jesus) who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15).
Secondly, God does not tempt you.
"Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone” (James 1:13).
In the next sentence, James defines temptation.
"But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust (thoughts). Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin (actions, behaviors, bondage); and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. Do not be deceived (misled), my beloved brethren.” (James 1:14-16)
Lust is often defined as an intense and selfish desire for gratification outside the bounds of God's design, purpose, and marriage. It is seen as a distortion of God's gift of masculinity and femininity where the focus is solely on satisfying one's own desires without regard for the well-being and dignity of others and self. Lust is a strong desire. It is an intense, overwhelming, or unrestrained sexual craving or addictive compulsion. According to Jesus, the very act of lusting after a woman is the sin of committing adultery in your heart.
“Your ancestors have been taught, never to commit adultery (any sex outside of marriage). However, I say to you, if you look with lust in your eyes at the body of a woman who is not your wife, you’ve already committed adultery in your heart” (Matthew 5: 27, 28).
Therefore, lust is a sin and a reaction to temptation. We believe lust comes from not being regenerated in your spirit (unbelief), carnal desires, compulsive behaviors, and addictions. In this attitude, mental state, or thought life, you choose to focus on the exciting object (whatever appears to give gratification) and give in to temptation rather than focus on God. Focusing on God, His Word, and His presence is the only appropriate response to temptation.
Three Forces Behind Temptation
The 5 powerful truths defeat temptation and reveal there are three forces behind temptation designed to deceive and mislead Christians: the world, the flesh, and the devil.
The World
The world is anything apart from Jesus; philosophies, religions, and isms (secularism, legalism, socialism, materialism). It says we can accomplish anything apart from God. And if we can’t, the culture will lower the standards or redefine its truth. It is what I call the Romans chapter 1 decline of humanity and nations.
1) You reject God. followed by worshiping idols.
2) Then, you embrace self-indulgence or sexual sin. (see my blog on sexual immorality)
3) God gives you over to a depraved mind.
The inhabitants of a world without God are immoral in their behavior and wicked in their thinking. In this case, Satan tempts you through the world, you believe its lies, you act and behave accordingly—sin, and you remain in bondage and eventually spiritual death.
"And his fullness fills you, even though you were once like corpses, dead in your sins and offenses. It wasn’t that long ago that you lived in the religion, customs, and values of this world, obeying the dark ruler of the earthly realm who fills the atmosphere with his authority and works diligently in the hearts of those who are disobedient to the truth of God. The corruption that was in us from birth was expressed through the deeds and desires of our self–life. We lived by whatever natural cravings and thoughts our minds dictated, living as rebellious children subject to God’s wrath like everyone else. But God still loved us with such great love. He is so rich in compassion and mercy. Even when we were dead and doomed in our many sins, he united us into the very life of Christ and saved us by his wonderful grace! He raised us up with Christ the exalted One, and we ascended with him into the glorious perfection and authority of the heavenly realm, for we are now co-seated as one with Christ! (Ephesians 2: 1-6).
The Flesh
The flesh is our own/carnal thoughts, desires, or lusts. Jesus took care of the sin issue for all who believe in His Sacrifice. Christians are forgiven of their sins, filled with the Holy Spirit, and promised eternal life. So, what is the issue involved with temptation? Paul makes it evident in Galatians chapter 5. A believer’s war or conflict with temptation isn’t sinning; it’s whether they walk in the Spirit, focused on God, bearing fruit, or walk in the flesh, focused on self, remaining in bondage.
"For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh … But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law” (Galatians 5:13, 16-18).
It’s interesting to note here that trying to handle temptation through the Law is the opposite of walking in the Spirit. Walking in the flesh under the Law is striving, working harder, strategizing, following man’s formulas, and mustering up enough faith to obligate God to help you resist temptation. I know these are harsh words, but our hope and faith are only based on the sufficiency of Christ Jesus. Jesus plus nothing! In this case, you react to temptation by feeding your lust and gratifying your wants, you act and behave accordingly, you sin, and you remain broken and in bondage.
The Devil
Lastly, the temptations are tools or
schemes of the devil. He’s a liar, a deceiver, an accuser of the brethren. His purpose on earth is to mislead you with lies. He uses lies to kill, steal, and destroy your freedom and abundance in Christ. The Apostle James says we are to resist the enemy (acknowledge the enemy’s strategies), no denial, no pretending, no broken cisterns, no works, or plan. You are to submit to God (focus on God, not the temptation). The result is that he will flee, present tense. God obliterates the devil’s temptation! God gives you grace (unconditional love and mercy) that is greater than temptation.
“Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Or do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose: “He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us”? But He gives a greater grace. Therefore, it says, ‘God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.’ Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4: 5-8). The Message says, “So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God, and he’ll be there in no time.”
Step Four: Jesus is Your Example
Jesus serves as your example when dealing with temptation. After His baptism and before beginning His ministry, Jesus was led into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Isn't it comforting to know that God remains in control, even when you encounter temptation? Jesus responded by quoting Scripture and commanded the devil to depart. He resisted the devil by trusting in the truth of Scripture, quoting it to show His submission to God (James 4:7).
“Afterward, the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the lonely wilderness in order to reveal his strength against the accuser by going through the ordeal of testing. And after fasting for forty days, Jesus was extremely weak and famished. Then the tempter came to entice him to provide food by doing a miracle. So he (Satan) said to Jesus, “How can you possibly be the Son of God and go hungry? Just order these stones to be turned into loaves of bread.” He answered, “The Scriptures say: Bread alone will not satisfy, but true life is found in every word, which constantly goes forth from God’s mouth.” Then the accuser transported Jesus to the holy city of Jerusalem and perched him at the highest point of the temple and said to him, “If you’re really God’s Son, jump, and the angels will catch you. For it is written in the Scriptures: He will command his angels to protect you and they will lift you up so that you won’t even bruise your foot on a rock.” Once again Jesus said to him, “The Scriptures say: You must never put the Lord your God to a test.” And the third time the accuser lifted Jesus up into a very high mountain range and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and all the splendor that goes with it. “All of these kingdoms I will give to you,” the accuser said, “if only you will kneel down before me and worship me.” But Jesus said, “Go away, enemy! For the Scriptures say: Kneel before the Lord your God and worship only him.” At once the accuser left him, and angels suddenly gathered around Jesus to minister to his needs” (Matthew 4:1-11).
Satan tempts Jesus by lying, using half-truths, and even Scripture out of context. Jesus acknowledges the deception resists the devil and submits to God’s Word. He speaks the truth and rebukes the lie. Christ takes every thought captive to God’s revealed truth. He does it the very moment He is tempted. Satan tried to deceive Jesus two more times. He responded the same way. The devil had to flee when Jesus told him to go away.
You will face temptation until the day you meet Jesus face to face. To resist the devil and submit to God, you need to have a close relationship with Jesus, similar to the close relationship He had with His Father in Heaven. Jesus is the truth, of course.
"So, Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “IF YOU CONTINUE IN MY WORD, THEN YOU ARE TRULY DISCIPLES OF MINE; AND YOU WILL KNOW THE TRUTH, AND THE TRUTH WILL MAKE YOU FREE” (Jn 8:31-32).
The truth that makes you free is not only accurate for salvation but temptation. Conversely, if you believe the devil lies, you will act according to the deception and remain in bondage. The Scriptures call these strongholds or fortresses. The truth sets you free the lie keeps you in bondage and dead spiritually.
“But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our wrongdoings (sins), made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved)" (Ephesians 2:4-5).
Step Five: Focus on God in the Moment of Temptation
The 5 steps to Defeat Temptation reveal the key is living in the present moment. You immediately take it to God. So how do you live in the moment? You focus on God, His Word, Jesus, truth, and the Holy Spirit living in and through you. God does not call us to fix the past or manage the future. God lives in the moment! Yes, He is God of the past, but He doesn’t ask you to live, fix, or focus on the past. Indeed, He is the God of the future, but He doesn’t ask you to manage or focus on the future. When the world, flesh, or devil tempts you, God asks you to focus on Him and run to Him in the present moment. Therefore, when you are tempted, you desperately need Jesus, and He freely gives you more than you can imagine. He offers you rest, peace, and grace.
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My load is light” (Matthew 11:28-30). “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:4-7). “Therefore, let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).
I Pray, and Nothing Happens
You might say, “I pray, and I pray, and God hasn’t healed me!” Do you pray, Lord help me with my addictions, and nothing happens? Your prayers are likely not in the moment of temptation. But after giving in to temptation or praying for victory in the future. God heals our past wounds, and He paves the way for future freedom. But He only helps you with temptation when you resist, submit, and act on His Word, Truth, and Spirit living in and through you at the moment.
In our counseling and prayer ministry, most of the husbands have sexual addiction—pornography, lust, sexual sin. In fact, it’s rampant in our culture. One thing in common is that none of them want to sin, or do they? They all pray for God to take away their sexual addictions. So why do they continue to sin? Well, it is simple; in the moment of temptation, they want or desire self-satisfaction more than God. In the moment of temptation, our desire is self-pleasure, not exercising our faith in Jesus. We are more comfortable with our sins than we are in being intimate with God. Most of us fear intimacy or experiencing God at a personal level. So, we react to what we are comfortable with or pleasing in the moment. I know that has been true in my case.
"Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For, all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father but from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever” (1 John 2:15-17).
They gave in to the temptations to act out their carnal desires, the lust of the eyes, and pride. Their prayers were always after the sin, not at the moment of temptation. It is why we teach every person, male or female, married or single, that comes to see us how to run to God. We call it God’s Intimacy Prayer.
Step Six: Take Every Thought Captive to Christ During Moment of Temptation
Step five is to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ during the moment of temptation which is an actual assault, harassment, or enticement from the world, flesh, or devil. As we have discussed previously, the key is focusing on God in the moment of temptation, not after. So, how does God give you a way of escape and what is it?
God Gives You a Way of Escape
God gives everyone a way out when tempted, and it comes into play, or full bloom around the word submit. Submit is taking every thought captive and focusing or giving it to Jesus, again, at the exact moment of temptation.
Temptations are common to all humans, and you can trust God to be faithful and help. Therefore, we focus on God. He is the way of escape! Let’s go back to why we give in to temptation and lustful thoughts. The Lord asks us to take every lustful thought or vain imagination captive to the obedience of Christ.
"No temptation has overtaken you, but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
God Gives You Mighty and Powerful Weapons
"You live in the world, but you do not wage war against temptation as the world does. God does not ask you to use the weapons made by mere men to fight the temptation of lust (any strong desire). You are to use mighty weapons that are divinely powerful to knock down Satan’s fortresses or strongholds. In this way, you are destroying human reasoning, smashing warped philosophies, false arguments against the knowledge and truth of God. You will be a part of demolishing this entirely massive and corrupt culture. You are to use these powerful God tools to tear down all barriers erected against the truth of God” (2 Corinthians 10:3-4, Message).
What are these mighty weapons that are divinely powerful to knock down Satan's fortresses or strongholds? Jesus! You are to use these powerful God tools to one, destroy human reasoning, two, smash warped and false philosophies, three, reveal false arguments against the knowledge and truth of God, four, demolish an entirely massive and corrupt culture, and five, tear down all barriers erected against the truth of God in the Name of Jesus.
Remember, all temptation comes from one of three sources the world, flesh, or the devil. So, how do you do this? It all starts by living in the moment and being aware of your thinking, urges, desires, and beliefs when you are tempted!
"By taking every loose thought, emotion, sexual desire, and impulse captive as obedient to Christ. You simply focus on and agree with Jesus. This type of thinking allows your thoughts and life to be structured and shaped by Christ. Responding and using God’s way of escape clears away every temptation (obstruction) and rebuilds your experiences” to produce faith, grace, victory, and maturity” (2 Corinthians 10:3-6, Message).
Step Seven: Be Thankful
Thankfulness and gratitude are key themes in the Bible. God encourages every Christian to embrace thankfulness and express gratitude as a lifestyle, naturally emanating from your heart and words. This response is crucial to appreciating God's liberation from temptation and sin.
“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
Christians are thankful because God is worthy of our thanksgiving. It is only right to credit Him for “every good and perfect gift” He gives.
"Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation (never changes) or shifting shadow" (James 1:17).
When you are thankful, your focus moves off selfish desires and off the pain of current circumstances. Expressing thankfulness helps you remember that God is in control. Thankfulness, then, is not only appropriate; it is actually healthy and beneficial to you. It reminds you of the bigger picture, that we belong to God, and that we have been blessed with every spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3). Truly, we have an abundant life here on this earth (John 10:10), and a perfect life in heaven. Therefore, gratefulness is fitting.
When you recognize the nature of your depravity and understand that, apart from God, there is only death, our natural response is to be grateful and give thanks for the life Jesus died to redeem. Christians know that God’s goodness is constant, and His love is steadfast.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever” (Psalm 136:1).
Praise naturally arises from gratitude for God's healing from sin and brokenness, such as addictions. Thanksgiving not only honors God in the present but also recalls His past faithfulness. It reflects God's character, which is so magnificent that praise is the only appropriate response.
"I will exalt You, O Lord, for You have lifted me up, and have not let my enemies (demons) rejoice over me. O Lord my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me...Sing praise to the Lord, you His godly ones (saints), and give thanks to His holy name...Then he turned my sorrow into joy! He took away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy so that I might sing glad praises to the Lord instead of lying in silence in the grave. O Lord my God, I will keep on thanking you forever!" (Psalm 30:1-2, 4, 11-12).
Thanksgiving and Gratitude in Difficult Times
Everyone encounters difficulties and challenges in life; it's a fundamental part of being human. During these tough times, we might question how we can find reasons to be grateful. The Bible teaches that even in adversity, there is a reason to express gratitude, as these situations often serve as opportunities for growth and strengthening our faith. By giving thanks during challenging times, we redirect our focus from despair to hope, reminding ourselves of God's presence and purpose. Let's explore some verses that encourage thankfulness in our most challenging moments.
There are examples of believers’ thankfulness in the New Testament. Paul was heavily persecuted, yet he wrote,
“Thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him” (2 Corinthians 2:14).
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6-7).
The writer of Hebrews says,
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe” (Hebrews 12:28).
Peter gives a reason to be thankful.
"In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:6-7).
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance” (James 1:2-3).
Thankfulness for God’s Provision
We cannot overlook the numerous times God has provided for us. Every meal, every shelter, and every comforting breeze is a gift from Him. Expressing gratitude to God for His provision helps us appreciate how He cares for us daily. By acknowledging His goodness in our lives, we become more aware of the blessings around us. Gratitude opens our eyes and hearts to perceive life with appreciation, strengthening our faith that He will continue to provide in the future. God cherishes hearing us express our gratitude for His provisions. Here are some scriptures that highlight the importance of being thankful for what He has given us.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” – Matthew 6:26
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” – 2 Corinthians 9:8
The Power of Thankfulness in Prayer
Incorporating thankfulness into our prayers enriches our dialogue with God. While it's common to present Him with a list of requests, expressing gratitude can transform our prayer experience. Thankfulness acknowledges what God has already accomplished in our lives, fostering intimacy and joy in our relationship with Him. It serves as a reminder of His past faithfulness, boosting our confidence in His present and future provisions. Approaching prayer with a grateful heart not only honors God but also cultivates peace and assurance within us. Here, we explore verses that highlight the essential link between thankfulness and prayer.
“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” – Colossians 4:2
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – 1 Chronicles 16:34
“Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Ephesians 5:20
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” – Psalm 100:4
Thankfulness in Worship
Worship represents one of the deepest expressions of our faith, with thankfulness being central to our worship experience. When we come together in worship, we honor God’s nature and character. A grateful heart enriches our capacity to sincerely praise Him. Through gratitude, we recognize His greatness, love, and grace towards us. By showing our thankfulness in worship, we not only glorify God but also remind ourselves of His unwavering goodness. Here are some inspiring verses that encourage thankfulness during our worship moments.
“Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.” – Psalm 95:2
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” – Psalm 136:1
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” – Hebrews 12:28-29
“Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp.” – Psalm 147:7
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:16
Thankfulness and Contentment
Embracing thankfulness is closely linked with learning to be content. In a society that constantly urges us to seek more, gratitude allows us to find fulfillment in what we already possess. By fostering thankfulness, we come to recognize that God has provided us with all we need for a meaningful life. This understanding transforms our outlook, encouraging us to live with a grateful heart instead of one filled with longing. Contentment grounded in gratitude enables us to truly value the simple pleasures of life. Consider the following verses that highlight this wonderful relationship between thankfulness and contentment.
“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” – 1 Timothy 6:6
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” – Psalm 23:1
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” – Hebrews 13:5
“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.” – Philippians 4:11-12
“All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast.” – Proverbs 15:15
Expressions of Gratitude
Gratitude extends beyond being a mere internal emotion; it is an expression that can be conveyed in multiple ways. We can demonstrate our appreciation through words, deeds, gifts, and acts of service to others. By intentionally expressing gratitude, we bring love and genuineness into our relationships. By expressing thanks not only to God but also to those around us, we initiate a ripple effect of positivity that can genuinely change our lives and communities. Explore these verses that encourage us to actively express our gratitude.
“Sacrifice thank offerings to God, and fulfill your vows to the Most High.” – Psalm 50:14
“All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” – 2 Corinthians 4:15
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” – Colossians 3:17
“Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.” – 1 Chronicles 29:13
“I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving.” – Psalm 69:30
Living a Life of Thankfulness
Gratitude shouldn't be just a fleeting thought or a seasonal gesture; it ought to define our lives. When gratitude becomes a way of life, it transforms our outlook and our interactions with the world. By choosing to live gratefully, we begin to notice the beauty in everyday moments, becoming conscious of God's presence daily. Inspiring ourselves and others to embrace a grateful mindset enables us to grow in faith and joy. Here are some verses that inspire us to keep gratitude at the center of our hearts and actions.
“Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Ephesians 5:20
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” – Colossians 2:6-7
“Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” – Psalm 107:8-9
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – Psalm 118:1
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – 1 Chronicles 16:34
Unbelievers
One of the characteristics of the last days is a lack of thanksgiving. Wicked people will be “ungrateful.”
"But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; avoid such men as these" (2 Timothy 3:2).
END RESULT: Walking in the Fruit of the Spirit- Love
Following these 7 Steps to Defeat Temptation will assure that you will defeat temptation and the sin that follows. These steps will lead you to trust and depend on the sufficiency of the cross and the resurrection of Christ. It will nurture an intimate relationship with Jesus. Being victorious over temptation will increase your faith and help you respond out of the fruit of the Spirit which is an inheritance of your salvation. These characteristics or attributes are aspects of your true Identity "IN" Christ. As is everything, they are a gift from God to be enjoyed and used for His glory.
“But the fruit of the Sprit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things, there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23).
It is important to remember that you cannot focus on God and focus on your selfish desires at the same time. Again, you can't walk in the Spirit and carry out the desires of the flesh.
"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the desire of the flesh is against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, in order to keep you from doing whatever you want" (Galatians 5:16-17).
Christians live in Christ’s love. The believer is love-inspired, love-mastered, and love-driven.
"For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died, and He died for all so that those who live would no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose on their behalf” (2 Corinthians 5:14-15).
Therefore, what does it look like to defeat temptations and walk in the Spirit of Love? The following list defines God’s love and its subsequent characteristics.
Joy is Loves Strength
Peace is Love’s Security
Patience is Love’s Endurance
Kindness is Love’s Conduct
Goodness is Love’s Character
Faithfulness is Love’s Confidence
Gentleness is Love’s Humility
Self-control is Love's Victory
Therefore, maturity and grace are what you can look forward to when you use the “5 Steps to Defeat Temptation and Sin.” For detailed information, see my post titled, How to Walk in the Spirit
Blessings, William S. Fuller
DO YOU WANT TO KNOW GOD INTIMATELY AND FEEL HIS LOVING PRESENCE?
This is the ultimate Christian online course on learning how to be intimate with God, not just knowing about Him, but to experience Him so He influences your heart, your marriage, family, church, and world.
JESUS PLUS NOTHING SAVES YOU
This is a detailed discussion on who Jesus is and how you get saved!
We All Have the Same Dilemma, We're Dead in Sin
Every human being, ethnic group, race, or gender finds themselves in this same dilemma. Therefore, there are three questions you would be wise to ask yourself and extremely prudent to answer.
One, why do I need to be saved?
Two, what does it mean for me to be saved?
Three, how am I saved?
I believe Only Jesus plus nothing not only saves you but answers these three questions.
Comments