Temptation is one of the themes Scripture returns to again and again. Scripture is plain: temptation is common, escape is provided, and you are not the first to want to give in.
People reach for these passages when they're looking up tempted, struggling with sin, can't stop, want to give in, or some version of "what does the Bible say about temptation?"
Among the most-cited passages on this theme are 1 Corinthians 10:13, Hebrews 4:15-16, James 1:12-15, Matthew 26:41, and others below. 1 Corinthians 10:13 is the passage many readers return to first.
The page also offers a written prayer that names temptation plainly and asks God for what's needed in this moment. It is not a magic formula — it is a small, faithful starting point.
A short reflection question sits at the bottom of the page: What is one practical guardrail you can put up this week? Sit with it for a minute, or carry it into a journal.
If this isn't quite the right doorway, try a closely related theme: Self Control, Accountability, Repentance.
Verses
1 Corinthians 10:13
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: 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.
Hebrews 4:15-16
For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
James 1:12-15
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Matthew 26:41
Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
James 4:7
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Romans 6:12-14
Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
Reflection
What is one practical guardrail you can put up this week?
Related topics
Want to search by feeling instead? Type what's on your heart on the home page.