Overcoming Temptation by Avoiding It
Your students face a world full of challenging temptations. Life was no different in Paul’s day. When teaching the Corinthians how to avoid temptation, he reminded them temptation was a problem “common to man” (1 Corinthians 10:13). However, he then taught the saints this principle: “But God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
The key to overcoming temptation is found in Paul’s added words of counsel: “Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry” (1 Corinthians 10:14). As you teach this scripture block to your students, you may choose to testify that God will provide a way for us to escape temptation, but we must also choose to separate ourselves from the temptation.
It is much easier for students to separate themselves from temptation when they are spiritually prepared. In a recent conference talk, Sister Bonnie L. Oscarson offered several suggestions for becoming spiritually strong:
- Have meaningful personal and family prayer
- Study the scriptures
- Hold regular family home evening
- Partake of the sacrament worthily
- Attend the temple
- Magnify your calling
- Share your testimony (see “Rise Up in Strength, Sisters in Zion,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2016, 12–15)
Invite Students to Share
Your students can take an active role in avoiding temptation. You can invite them to use social media to testify that they can avoid temptation by increasing their spiritual strength. Shareable images can be found on the Seminary Facebook page and are included at the end of this article.
How to Share
In your discussions with your students, encourage them to think about ways they can separate themselves from temptation by turning to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. As you and your students share thoughts on social media, consider answering the following questions:
- What can I do to separate myself from temptation?
- How does the Lord strengthen me when I feel tempted?
Include #LDSSeminary in the post.
