Ellen Chat Conversation

Ellen White taught that overcoming temptation is a collaborative effort between the individual and God, stating that "Christ has made it possible for every member of the human family to resist temptation" (MM 264.3). She emphasized that while we receive divine help, personal effort is essential because "the excellence of your character you must obtain as the result of your own exertion" (4MR 206.2). This involves a conscious decision to "summon will-power to your aid" (CTBH 147.2) and to "bridle appetite" (4MR 206.2). She explained that "no man can be forced to transgress," as his "own consent must be first gained" before "passion can dominate over reason" (MYP 67). For those who feel discouraged by past failures, she offered great hope, explaining that even if a person has been "overcome again and again, it need not be always thus" (MH 174.6). Although human resolutions can sometimes feel like "ropes of sand" (CH 439.4), strength is provided to those who and "cry unto the Lord" (MYP 67) in their moments of weakness. She noted that there is "less trouble in combating temptation when [the] habit of resistance is formed" (10MR 293.1). For practical application, this means that while you "must stand alone, fighting your own battles," you are never truly alone because you have "Jesus and the angels of God to help you" (4MR 206.2). Victory is found by planting your feet "firmly on the Rock of Ages" and remembering that "strength sufficient for every time of need is provided" (MYP 81). In conclusion, overcoming is possible for everyone who combines their will with divine power, following the example of Christ who "overcame as Christ overcame, by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony" (MM 264.3). --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:** • What did Ellen White say about the connection between appetite and the power to resist temptation? • How does forming a "habit of resistance" change our experience with sin? • What role does prayer play in obtaining strength to overcome?