Everyone gets tempted. The question is—what will you say to yourself in that moment?

In moments of temptation, a man needs strong, clear truth—not weak thoughts, but wise words. He should repeat the most powerful lines he knows.

Here is a list of a few to consider:

• I will not dishonor myself or my God.
• Is this worth damaging my reputation?
• Do I need more trouble in my life right now?
• Do I really want to stomp on my wife’s heart?
• I want to be a man of integrity.
• A moment of pleasure… a lifetime of pain.
• This won’t fix anything—it will only make things worse.
• Is this the life I want to build?
• There is nothing but more trouble down this path.
• I want to be a trustworthy man.
• I’ve made enough messes—I don’t need any more.
• Discipline is freedom.
• I want inner peace, not hidden shame.
• Do I want to carry another secret?
• I’m tired of living a divided life.
• I want to live clean and open.
• I want to protect my innocence.
• Is this who I want to be when no one is watching?
• What will this cost me tomorrow?
• What would this do to the people I love?
• I choose long-term good over short-term fantasy.
• I am not losing my integrity in this moment.
• Do I want to grow—or stay get worse?
• Do I really want to live like an out-of-control 16-year-old?
• That’s the old me. This is the new me.
• I choose peace, rest, and joy.

Prayer:

Father, give me wisdom and strength. Help me stand firm in the face of temptation. Bless me.  Amen.

Scripture

“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”   Col. 3:2 NIV