15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. 16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16

Whatever you are facing right now, you are not alone in it. Part of the temptation’s success comes through isolation. When we feel like we are alone, like we are the only ones who ever have to deal with whatever it is, we are more likely to yield to the temptation. What we must remember is that we are not alone.

Each temptation though unique to us at the time has a common core to it. Every person alive will wrestle with something similar to what each person deals with internally. Jesus Christ himself also wrestled with the same common core issues that we as humans face, yet He did not sin. This is why we can be encouraged and comforted.

Jesus did not yield so it is possible for us to not yield. We may think it’s just too difficult to not sin. At times, the temptation may be like a fire in our souls, but if we will rely on the Spirit of Christ within us and seek the help of other Christians around us, we do not HAVE to yield. Scripture tells us in Galatians 5:16 that if we let the Spirit guide us, we don’t have to give in to our sinful nature. It’s about who we yield to. Yield to Christ, not to self.

We are comforted in the fact that we are not the only ones to ever face these temptations. Jesus Himself endured therefore He understands exactly what you’re going through. He knows. Therefore go to Him when you need strength, power and courage to say “no”. Go to Christ because He loves you and wants you back in fellowship with Him. Temptation leads to sin which always separates us from God.

Temptation thrives on isolation so don’t buy into the lies it brings. You are not the only one going through whatever you’re going through. You are not unloved by God or Jesus because you’ve failed. You still have value and a place in God’s Kingdom. He will take you back if you will simply return to Him. Temptation may be stronger than you but it is not stronger than Christ who is in you. Whatever you yield to is what will overcome you.