Mental Health

Pastor Virginia Perry-Alexander

Temptation Stimulates to Impurity

It is inevitable to be tempted. It will show up. As a result, you should be prepared for it rather than

surprised by it. James 1:14 says that in order to resist temptation, you must first comprehend what tempts you. According to Matthew 5:27–29, it is absolutely necessary for you to take drastic measures to identify and get rid of anyone or anything that gets in the way of your progress. For instance, if you are tempted to watch a particular show, listen to certain music or artists, or follow certain social media accounts, you should immediately stop doing so. Also, talk to your boyfriend in a mature way to set boundaries for your relationship that will help keep your interactions pure.

Temptations and stimulants do not always take place when someone is present. When we have the urge to engage in sexual activity, we may be alone. Because our minds can be a doorway to temptation, you must read the Bible every day and meditate on God's truth. The outcome? You are ready to resist the lie

presented to you by the enemy and replace it with the positive Word of God.

The Word of God should be reflected in everything you do. (Philippians 4:8) Be careful about what you

allow yourself to think about. Be careful with your words, actions, and thoughts. On your way to purity,

you will be prosperous and successful if you do all of these things (Joshua 1:8).

If you are willing to accept it, know that God will offer you a way out of temptation (1 Corinthians

10:13). Pay attention to the voice telling you to leave before the situation gets too heated or the sudden

call from a friend. These indicators should not be ignored. Don't look back as you run for the nearest exit. Jesus was tempted in all areas, just like we are, but He never sinned, so He understands temptation and how we feel. Therefore, you are free from shame and can boldly approach God for mercy and grace to assist you in avoiding temptation (Hebrews 4:15–16). (Emphasis are mine). Supporting Scriptures “But each one is tempted when he is dragged away, enticed and baited [to commit sin] by his own [worldly] desire (lust, passion).” James 1:14 AMP “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery’; but I say to you that everyone who [so much as] looks at a woman with lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye makes you stumble and leads you to sin, tear it out and throw it away [that is, remove yourself from the source of temptation]; for it is better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.” Matthew 5:27-29 AMP “Let us conduct ourselves properly and honorably as in the [light of] day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and irresponsibility, not in quarreling and jealousy. But clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for [nor even think about gratifying] the flesh in regard to its improper desires.” Romans 13:13-14 AMP “But I say, walk habitually in the [Holy] Spirit [seek Him and be responsive to His guidance], and then you will certainly not carry out the desire of the sinful nature [which responds impulsively without regard for God and His precepts]. For the sinful nature has its desire which is opposed to the Spirit, and the [desire of the] Spirit opposes the sinful nature; for these [two, the sinful nature and the Spirit] are in direct opposition to each other [continually in conflict], so that you [as believers] do not [always] do whatever [good things] you want to do.” Galatians 5:16-17 AMP

Self Evaluation… Do you know your temptation stimulates? Take a piece of paper and make a list of the things that make you want to commit sexual sins and sin against God. What boundaries can you set to avoid being tempted? When you have a lustful thought, how do you react? Do you ignore it? Do you indulge in the sexual sin? Do you know that, as a Believer, God provides you with a way out of temptation? Do you disregard the warnings? How can you recognize signs as soon as you see them and be sensitive to His Spirit?

Always Working In His Service, Pastor Virginia Perry-Alexander CEO, VPA Ministries, LLC