DaveTrenholm.com

This is a study that looks at Proverbs 5 to see why we so often give into temptation and how we should deal with temptation. It could be done as a small group Bible study or as a devotional for a larger group.

Proverbs 5

Read Proverbs 5:1-4

Although the verses are specifically talking about the temptations of an immoral woman, they clearly lay out some basic guidelines in dealing with temptations.But first, a question: Why do people sin? Because it seems like it’s a good thing.

• Cheat on a test and get a better grade.
• Punch someone who’s bothering you and you’ll feel better.
• Lie to your parents and get out of trouble.

Read Proverbs 5:3-5

Sin seems appealing – read verse 3

Humans by nature want what they think is best for them. If I offered you iced tea or used oil to drink – which would you choose? If I offered you a teaspoon of used oil and ten thousand dollars to drink it or iced tea for a nickel – which would you choose? Why? Because you think in the long run, the money is worth it.Sin seems worth it. It seems to benefit them in some way. People don’t lie to try to get INTO trouble – they lie to get OUT of trouble. People don’t steal to LOSE what they have – they steal to GAIN what they don’t. Sin seems appealing.But what’s the truth? Verse 4-5

The lie to get out of trouble brings…

• guilt
• eventual punishment by God
• possibly more trouble than you were originally in

Does anyone have any examples of how sin seemed appealing, but in the end was terrible? [Personal Experience Story Goes Here] The truth about sin is “Although it seems appealing – in the end it’s very unappealing.”So how do we deal with temptation?

Read verse 8 Run away! I’m not talking metaphorically – I really mean to run away!

Read Genesis 39:6-12

Joseph actually RAN AWAY! He physcially fled the scene. If you’re tempted to steal something – don’t hang around whatever it is that you’re tempted to steal! Run away! Leave the room or the building. If you’re tempted to punch out your brother or sister – go away. Don’t just wait there until you give in to the temptation.

The second part of verse 8 says not to even go near her house.

• Don’t put yourself in a position where you are likely to be tempted.
• If you’ve got a problem with swearing – don’t hang around people who swear.
• If you’ve got a problem of cheating on tests – sit at the front of the class where the teacher can see you.
• What are some other examples?

The last point I want to make is in verse 21.

God sees everything CLEARLY.

• The store might never know you stole that item – But God does.
• The teacher might not ever know you cheated – but God does.
• Your parents might not ever know you lied to them – but God does.

God is always right there with you.Application: You’re certain to be tempted this week. How will you deal with it?