Day 1: Dealing with Temptation
Self-control is needed because we all experience temptation to sin. Read 1 Corinthians 10:12-14. Consider these 4 truths about temptation, and consider how they provide help to you with the temptations you experience:
- Temptation is common (v13): How does it help to know that we are not alone in the temptations we experience?
- So, we should “take heed” (v12). What is the danger of pride (“thinking we stand firm”) when dealing with temptation?
- God is faithful (v13): What encouragement do you find in the reminder that God hasn’t left you to fight on your own, but is there to provide help?
- Therefore, we should flee temptation (v14). Why do we sometimes flirt with temptation instead of flee it?
Day 2: The Power of the Spirit
- Christians ought to be very hopeful of their progress in growth in the Christian life, because they have the Spirit of God living in them. We never attain sinless perfection in this life, and growth takes much time; but nevertheless we should persevere in hope and not give up.
- Read Romans 8:8-14. Anyone who is in Christ is also in the Spirit, and has the Spirit dwelling in them. How is the Spirit’s power described (v11)? Consider that this same power is at work in us (v11, Ephesians 1:19-20). How does that give you encouragement in your struggle against sin and in your desire to please God?
- V14 tells us that “By the Spirit” we are to “put to death the misdeeds of the body”. This includes both a passive element, in which we depend upon the Spirit’s power; and an active element, in which we actively put to death the sin in our lives. So, growth in the Christian life is neither something God does without our active cooperation; nor is it something we do in our own strength. Consider if there is one of these elements you are more prone to neglect, and how you could embrace it more fully.