Battling Temptation: Learning to Listen to God's Voice Instead of Satan's Lies

During the season of Lent, we often focus on giving up temptations. While this practice has merit, there's a deeper spiritual battle at play - learning to distinguish and follow God's voice instead of the tempter's.

Why Do We Struggle with Temptation?

As humans, we are naturally weak when facing temptation. Satan's voice constantly surrounds us, whispering "have it your way" - an approach that appeals to our self-centered nature. This tactic hasn't changed since the Garden of Eden, where Satan convinced Eve to question God's commands —his love!

How Does Satan Try to Deceive Us?

Satan's primary strategy is getting us to question our identity in Christ. Just as he challenged Jesus with "If you are the Son of God," he tries to make us doubt who we are as God's beloved children. He's a master at mixing truth with lies, often twisting Scripture to deceive us.

Modern examples of temptation come in many forms:

  • Constant access to harmful content through smartphones and TV

  • Fast food, vape stores, red dot stores on every street corner

  • Media consumption averaging 8-9 hours daily (esp. for youth!)

  • Early exposure to adult content (average age: 11)

  • Materialistic messaging through advertising

    How Did Jesus Overcome Temptation?

Jesus faced Satan in the wilderness for 40 days, demonstrating how to overcome temptation:

  • He remained confident in His identity as God's Son

  • He used Scripture as a weapon ("It is written...")

  • He refused to compromise, even when physically weak

  • He stayed focused on God's plan rather than temporary comfort

What Tools Has God Given Us to Fight Temptation?

We have been equipped with:

  • God's Word as our sword

  • The Holy Spirit's presence and power

  • Our identity as God's beloved children

  • Our Harvest Community —through mutual support and prayer

  • Regular worship, prayer and receiving Communion

  • The practice of confession and receiving grace

Life Application

This week, focus on these practical steps to overcome temptation:

  • Memorize specific Scripture verses to combat your common temptations

  • When tempted, immediately declare your identity in Christ - Satan will FLEE!

  • Seek accountability from 2 trusted Christian friends — friends that you can share anything with!

  • TAKE SERIOUSLY… the exposure to tempting influences and do something about them. Do it!!

Ask yourself this week:

  • Am I spending more time listening to worldly voices?? Or God's voice? How?

  • Do I truly believe in my identity as God's beloved child?

  • What specific Scriptures can I memorize to combat my biggest temptations?

  • Who can I ask to pray with me and hold me accountable?

Remember also: As I said in today’s sermon… Victory over temptation isn't just for the future - through Christ, we can walk in victory today by staying connected to God's voice and remembering our true identity in Him. In Christ, WE HAVE VICTORY! Amen.

I love you all,

Travis +

March 9, 2025

Travis Abercrombie