Exercise 2: Spiritual struggle

Today, since we just talked about the temptations of Jesus, I want to ask you, what sin are you struggling with the most?

Is it over eating?

Is it pornography?

Is it Judging others?

Lying?

Cheating?

Are you a gossip? a slanderer?

Whatever temptation or sin you are struggling with, write it down. And think, what is the real issue at heart? What is the issue that is causing the sin or the struggle?

If you are over eating, is it because you are depressed or don't like the way you look? If you are lusting or addicting to pornography is it because you are looking for an escape from the monotony of your daily life? Or is it because you have allowed your physical desires to rule your life?

Whatever the sin or temptation is, there is a deeper issue going on. Talk to your minister, friends, counselors, spouses, and figure out what the deeper issue is.

Is it as we saw in the temptations of Jesus, lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh or a boastful and prideful life?  Whatever the deeper issue is, search for passages of scripture that speak against the issue. Find power in the word of God by putting relevant passages of scripture to memory to be able to resist those temptations when they come into your life.

I know there is a lot of leg work for you on this exercise, but I believe it will help you combat the attacks of the devil. And I believe, as you are able to defend yourself and keep yourself from falling to those temptations, you will be able to bless those around you.

Write down your sin, figure out the real issue, and search for Bible passages that speak to that real issue.