Ellen White taught that while Christ provides the moral power and example for victory, individuals must exert their own will and effort to overcome temptation. She emphasized that "Temptation, however strong, is never an excuse for sin" (
MYP 67) because God provides strength to all who seek it in humility. Ellen White stressed that character development is a personal responsibility that requires individual exertion. She noted that while others can encourage us, "they can never do your work of overcoming temptation" (
4MR 206.2). However, the believer is not left to struggle in their own strength alone. She explained that "you have Jesus and the angels of God to help you" (
4MR 206.2) and that Christ came specifically to bring to man moral powerso that he might be victorious over habits and perverted appetite (
Te 264.3). A central theme in her writing is that sin requires the consent of the individual. She stated that "the soul must purpose the sinful act, before passion can dominate over reason" (
MYP 67).
To resist this, one must "Summon will-power to your aid" (
CTBH 147.2) and maintain a constant connection with God through prayer. She encouraged those struggling to "Cry to the dear Saviour for help to sacrifice every idol" (
SL 90), assuring them that "strength sufficient for every time of need is provided for those who are struggling against temptation" (
MYP 81). Overcoming temptation is not just a one-time event but a process of building habits. Ellen White observed that there is "Less Trouble in Combating Temptation When Habit of Resistance Is Formed" (
10MR 293.1). By nobly overcoming difficulties, a person "not only becomes strong herself in doing her duty, but her experience in overcoming temptations and obstacles qualifies her to be an efficient help to others" (
WM 151.5).
She warned that every impulse and faculty must be "moment by moment, under the control of the Spirit of God" (
MYP 62) to prevent Satan from gaining an advantage. For practical application, this means that when you are assailed by temptation, you should steadfastly resist the evil promptings and say to your soul, "How can I dishonor my Redeemer? I have given myself to Christ; I cannot do the works of Satan" (
SL 90). By looking to Jesus in faith and pleading for His direction, you can obtain the strength to overcome even the most powerful temptations. In conclusion, victory over temptation is a collaborative effort where human will and divine power meet. While we must fight our own battles, we do so with the assurance that Christ has already gained the victory on our behalf and is ready to help us gain it on our own account. --- 💡 **You might also want to explore:**
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