Power of a Praying Woman 10/17/06 9:02 AM Page 196
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The Power of a Praying Woman
well. Money tempts us. Power tempts us. Desire tempts us. “Each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren” (James 1:14-16). The enemy will tempt you in the way you are most susceptible. Whatever your ?esh lusts after, ask God to give you the strength to resist it. Guard your vulnerable areas with prayer. 3. When: Temptation can happen any time and often when you least expect it and are most susceptible. When it does happen, the danger is in thinking you can handle it alone. It’s best to take it to God and confess it immediately, and then ?nd someone trustworthy to pray with you about it. Don’t think it will just pass. The risk is too great. Treat it as a serious threat no matter when it happens. 4. Where: Temptation can happen anywhere. In church, at work, at home, on a bus or plane. It will happen in the place you least expect it. Wherever it is, separate yourself from it immediately. If chocolate tempts you, don’t hang out in the candy store. The smell of it will drive you crazy and weaken your resistance. If a certain man tempts you, don’t be around him. Or if you must, don’t be alone with him. Separate yourself from the temptation and ask God to kill that lust in you. 5. Why: The reason the enemy tempts you is because he knows of the great things God wants to do in your life, and he thinks you are dumb enough to give it all up for a few moments of pleasure. He knows that not only do you stand to lose from it, but other people will be hurt by your sin as well. So he has the potential for multiple victories. When you see his trap, tell him you are not going to allow him to destroy your life or anyone else’s.