As we finish out this series, you must be asking yourself the question, “Have I really learned intolerance for temptations?” Well, maybe you have and maybe you haven’t, but you haven’t finished learning how to do this just yet. There is one vital component that you must have in order to learn intolerance for temptations. It is the only component that matters. If this component is paired up with other components, it will never be as effective as it is by itself. The equation should not be one plus one is two. The equation for learning intolerance for temptation is one plus zero is one. However, many of us like to add ourselves into the equation. We take the one vital component and add ourselves and get two. Usually you could say it is a good thing to be involved in your life, but when it comes to spiritual warfare and learning intolerance for temptations, none of us are any good at it. You need to leave this business to the One who can handle it. This vital component that will assist you in your efforts to learn intolerance for temptation is the Holy Spirit. Listen to what Jesus says about the Spirit in John 14:
“If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” (John 14:15-18)
The Spirit lives inside you. However, in order for it to be most effective, it must work alone. You can’t try to influence the Spirit to do things it doesn’t want to do. That’s what happens when the equation is one plus one is two. You must subtract your own desires and cravings (by fleeing from temptation—look at the previous lesson) and allow the Spirit total control over your life. This begins by becoming a Christian, which takes place through confession and baptism. Once you’ve received the gift of the Holy Spirit, you have to give him some room. What people typically like to do is just hang around and put in their two cents. When this happens, the Spirit is quenched and your personal spirit wins. This is when you’re caught giving in to temptation. On the other hand, when you allow the Spirit of truth to work in your life, it will do amazing things. Read these verses:
“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world give. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:25-27)
Do you really believe that you become possessed by some supernatural spirit and it actually teaches you things? I hope so! That’s Jesus’ promise to us as Christians. If we will obey his commands, he will ask the Father, and we will be given the Holy Spirit. Working alongside God, you will be able to develop intolerance for any temptation that comes your way. Over the course of this study, we’ve looked at many different aspects of dealing with temptation. They are all important parts of this journey to intolerance, but the most important thing is that you strive to obey Christ’s commands with everything inside you, remain open to the Holy Spirit so that it can work in your life, and follow its guidance as it leads you to the Father. Being one with the Father only happens when you subtract yourself from the equation. Remember, one plus zero is one, but if you’re already a two, pray to God “Lord, there’s two fighting for control right now, please minus me, so there will be only you.” (Two – Me = You) Learn Intolerance For Temptations.
PRINTABLE VERSION: LESSON 10
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