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Every person faces a quiet battle. It does not always come with noise. Sometimes it comes as a small pull inside you: choose the easy way, the quick pleasure, or the thing you know is wrong. This battle is called temptation. If you feel it, you are not alone, and you are not weak.

What Is Temptation?

Temptation is a test of whether we will choose good or evil. It is an invitation to do wrong and follow Satan instead of God. Part of the purpose of this life is to learn to overcome temptation and to choose right by our own free will. This power to choose is called agency.

Even Jesus Christ faced temptation. Latter-day scripture says He "suffered temptations but gave no heed unto them" (Doctrine and Covenants 20:22).

Why Does Temptation Exist?

If God wants us to be good, why does He allow temptation? Because goodness is only real when it is chosen. God gave every person agency, so each of us can learn, grow, and freely choose what is good.

The Bible says that in the last days "perilous times shall come" (2 Timothy 3:1). Wrong influences are all around us, and they often look attractive. But God also gives a promise: when we are humble and ask for help, He will not let us be tempted beyond what we can bear.

"God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able."

— — 1 Corinthians 10:13

Seven Ways to Stand Strong

1. Build your life on Jesus Christ

A house built on a strong foundation can stand in a storm. In the same way, when your life is built on Jesus Christ, the winds of temptation have no power to pull you down.

"It is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation."

— — Helaman 5:12

2. Pray for strength

Sincere prayer is one of our greatest protections. You do not need long or beautiful words. Simply ask God for help. Jesus taught:

"Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."

— — Matthew 26:41

Another scripture teaches that we should "pray always, that you may come off conqueror" (Doctrine and Covenants 10:5). "Conqueror" means winner.

3. Read the scriptures every day

When your mind is full of good words, wrong thoughts have less power. The scriptures teach that those who listen to the word of God and hold fast to it will not be overpowered by the "fiery darts" of the adversary (1 Nephi 15:24). Even ten minutes a day can help.

4. Fill your life with goodness

A life full of good things leaves little room for bad things. Serve others. Spend time with your family and good friends. Build healthy habits. Do useful work.

5. Stay away from tempting places and situations

It is easier to avoid temptation than to fight it after you are close to it. Be careful about the places you go and the things you watch, listen to, and read, including videos, music, and social media on your phone.

6. Help others do good

You can live in the world without following its lowest standards. When you set a good example, serve your community, and speak for what is right, you help others and you grow stronger yourself.

7. Do not wait. Say no at once

The best time to say no is the first moment. When Jesus was tempted, He answered at once: "Get thee behind me, Satan" (Luke 4:8). Waiting only makes it harder.

"Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you."

— — James 4:7–8

Are Little Children Tempted?

The scriptures teach that Satan does not have power to tempt little children until they begin to be accountable for their actions (Doctrine and Covenants 29:47). Accountable means able to understand right and wrong and to be responsible for choices.

Temptation Is Not a Sign That You Are Weak

Being tempted does not make you a bad person. It is part of being human. Every time you choose good, you become stronger and closer to God. Praying, reading, filling your life with goodness, and saying no at the first moment are not small things. They are the way anyone can rise above the pressures of the world. If you fail sometimes, do not give up. Turn to God again. He is ready to help you start again.


Key Points

  • Temptation is a test of whether we choose good or evil.
  • Jesus Christ was tempted and did not give in.
  • God gave us agency, so we can choose, and He helps us when we ask.
  • We can overcome temptation by building on Jesus Christ, praying, reading scripture, filling life with good, avoiding tempting places, helping others, and saying no at once.
  • Little children are protected until they become accountable.
  • Being tempted is not a sign of weakness.

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