Victory over Temptation

Discussion Questions:

1) Was there anything from the sermon or the passage that stuck out to you?

2) The concept of Shalom represents more than just peace; it encompasses wholeness, fullness, and complete satisfaction. We often pursue various paths trying to find this sense of completeness, whether through achievement, relationships, or personal development. Yet true Shalom can only be found in relationship with God. What areas of your life do you find yourself pursuing wholeness and satisfaction apart from God?

3) We tend to view sin primarily as specific wrong actions rather than a broken relationship with our Creator. This perspective can lead to a cycle of guilt and self-condemnation rather than focusing on restoring our connection with God. When we understand sin as separation, we can address the root issue rather than just the symptoms. How might viewing sin as broken relationship rather than bad behavior change how you respond to temptation?

4) There's a difference between God's tests, which are designed to strengthen our faith and draw us closer to Him, and Satan's temptations, which aim to pull us away from trusting God. Tests reveal the genuine quality of our faith while temptations invite us to find fulfillment outside of God's presence. When have you experienced something difficult that ultimately strengthened your trust in God rather than weakening it?

5) Victory over temptation doesn't come through greater willpower or determination. Paradoxically, acknowledging our weakness and dependence on Christ provides the strength to overcome what we could never defeat through self-reliance. The humble prayer "lead us not into temptation" is an admission of our vulnerability. When have you experienced freedom from a persistent temptation by confessing your weakness rather than trying harder on your own?