Breaking Free

Breaking Free

Objective: To confront and address any sin or temptation that might be threatening the marriage.

1 Peter 5:8-9

What do these verses say about the likelihood that we will face temptation?

According to this Scripture, how should we protect ourselves from temptation and sin?

Matthew 5:27-30

What does Jesus say about our actions, our thoughts and the heart?  How does this passage apply to the example in this week’s video clip – Caleb being tempted by pornography?

1 Corinthians 6:18-20 and 2 Timothy 2:22

We’ve already discussed the importance of removing the source of temptation from our lives.  These passages suggest another method of dealing with temptation: what is it?  Give some practical examples of “fleeing” from immorality.

Under what conditions would it be more effective to remove the temptation?  When would it be better to remove yourself?

1 John 1:9

When we “confess”, we agree with God regarding our thoughts and behavior.  What does God promise in return when we confess our sin?

James 5:16

When we draw together as Christ’s church, we receive strength and encouragement from each other.  What does this passage also teach about the effect of confessing to each other?  How does this help us resist temptation and turn away from sin?

FIREPROOFING AT HOME APPLICATION – Luke 6:41-42

FIREPROOFING FOR MEN & WOMEN

James 1:13-15

Which of the follow do you find yourself doing in response to temptation?

____ Rationalizing (i.e. “It’s just this one time,”  “God will forgive me,” “I deserve this” or “It’s OK for me

to do this because …”)

____ Hiding your behavior

____ Suffering from guilt

____ Withdrawing from God

James 4:7

Read through the list below.  Which of these particularly help you resist temptation?  Which of them do you regularly use?  Give some examples where appropriate

____ Reading the Bible

____ Praying

____ Talking about the issue with other people

____ Confessing to God

____ Leaving the place where the temptation occurred

____ Immediately getting involved with another activity

____ Going to a place where you are with other people

____ Going to church or participating in a church activity

____ Other: ______________________________________

Re-read James 5:16

Some “parasites” are the type we can fall into over and over again.  This type of sin or temptation might require an accountability group or partner – a person or body of believers who can help you consistently turn away from sinful thoughts or actions.  You can find accountability and strength in a trustworthy friend, a professional counselor or a support group or organization.  If you don’t already have someone like this in your life, pray that God will reveal that person or group to you.

FIREPROOFING FOR COUPLES

Open your time together with prayer, asking God to give you wisdom as well as a receptive heart and mind.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Share your answers to question 1 in the Fireproofing for Men and Women section.  How do you each struggle with temptation?  Are there ways in which you can encourage each other and provide both understanding and accountability?

Share your answers to question 2.  As you review the ways that help you resist sin and temptation, are there any you can do together?  How can you encourage or strengthen your spouse as he/she follows those steps?

Share any insights you each received from your Fireproofing Challenge.  As you feel led, confess to your spouse any sins God revealed during your prayer time.  Tell your mate the step(s) you’re taking to resist/flee temptation.  Think about the passage from Ecclesiastes – how can you “help each other up” and defend yourselves against Satan’s schemes?  How is God the “third strand” in the strong cord of your marriage?