LITTLE ROCK — DEAR REV. GRAHAM: I gave my life to Jesus at a summer church camp two years ago, but why do I still have temptations? I thought those would go away when I accepted Jesus, but they haven’t.
- P.D.
DEAR P.D.: If Jesus Christ was tempted by the devil, don’t you think you and I will be tempted by him also? Becoming a Christian doesn’t shield you from temptations; in fact, they may grow stronger (at least for a time), because the devil will do everything he can to make us turn away from Christ. But Jesus didn’t give in to the devil’s temptations - and neither should we. (You can read about Jesus’ encounter with the devil in Matthew 4:1-11.)
How should we deal with temptation? Let me suggest three ways. First, face it - that is, realize it for what it is: an attempt to turn us away from God and His will. Don’t say to yourself, “Oh well, it doesn’t really matter; everyone is doing it.” Instead, face the fact that you are being tempted to do wrong.
Second, flee from it. If certain situations always tempt you or cause you to stumble, avoid them like you would avoid a poisonous snake!
Then finally, fight it - fight temptation by turning to God in prayer, and with the truth of God’s Word, the Bible. Jesus could have used His supernatural powers to banish the devil from His presence, but instead, He simply quoted the Bible - the same resource God has given us. I’m thankful you have given your life to Jesus. Now grow in your faith, because the closer we are to Christ, the farther we are from the devil.
Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28201 or visit the website at
Weekend, Pages 32 on 07/22/2010