“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV
This doesn’t mean the temptations get easier but may get harder as we get stronger in Christ. As babies he shelters a bit more and as adults we should be able to handle more so those temptations may only get stronger. So what do we do about it? Sit and cry out for more protection? To me that would be like reverting to diapers every time I felt the need or urge to use the restroom instead of handling it as I can.
God equips us with an incredibly enabling Holy Spirit and a suit of armor second to none. Doesn’t that mean we should advance in His security rather than retreat because of our flesh?
We are no longer slaves to sin. Temptation has no hold on us. It can only reach out to attempt to pull us down, but as scripture says we should not and cannot give the devil that opportunity. “Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil. Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:24 ESV
This isn’t just about anger but a multitude of situations. Just a thought, is it possible that you could extend grace to yourself through talk, “good for building up, as fits the occasion?” I think so. So next time you are faced with a temptation that seems overwhelming extend yourself grace by building yourself up in Christ instead of submitting to your flesh.