How To Fight Temptations

Step 1. Temptations first manifest themselves as split second thoughts. Combating these split second thoughts is a spiritual battle! 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 - "For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ."

Step 2. Always take your plans to God in prayer. If you are losing ground in your thoughts, the
temptations will find greater resistance when you take them before God in prayer. Simply close your eyes and talk to Him about what is on your mind. He said, "Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." (Matthew 26:41) For certain situations, fasting can help clear the distractions and enable you to better hear His "still small voice." (1 Kings 19:12) Regular prayer is essential for maintaining intimacy with god through the inner, personal reality of the Holy Spirit. The communication line of prayer is always open! "Let us
therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to
help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16)

Step 3. Develop accountability in your life through friends, church, and small groups at church. When our spirit is feeling overtaken by our flesh, the Spirit of God can work powerfully through others to help us. Simply deciding to spend time with the right friends can help keep us away from tempting situations. The inner reality of the Holy Spirit creates a profound connection between Christians when they spend time together. This connection can help protect you from the overpowering force of the flesh that wants to pull you into sin. (Eph. 2:19-22; 4:25)

Talk and pray with others about the temptations you struggle with. "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man
is powerful and effective." (James 5:16)

Take every thought captive --> close your eyes and talk to God about what is on your mind --> develop accountability in your life