Don’t Take the Bait!
Series: Hooked
Scripture: Matthew 26:41; James 1:12-18

Temptation: the enticement or ___________ to think, feel, or _________ in a way that is ______________ to what is righteous, ____________, or God’s will.
• Every temptation _______________ with a greater _______________ from God.
• it’s often _________________
• Matthew 26:41: “Stay ________________…”
• Often comes from 2 pressures:
• to _______________ (Romans 12:2)
• to _______________ (Romans 7:15)

We need to:
1. _________________ what is _____________.
• _______________ gets tempted.
• Our _______________ always have ___________________.
• either move us closer to God or farther away
• You are not _____________
• Hebrews 4:15
2. ________________ God’s ___________ in our lives.
• God is _________ the _______________.
• James 1:13
• God ______________ a way ___________
• 1 Corinthians 10:13
• God wants to see you __________.
• James 1:12
3. ____________ my _______________.
• Align myself with God’s ______________.
• Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
• Align myself with God’s ______________.
• Psalm 119
• Align myself with God’s ______________.
• Philippians 4:13

Start talking:
• What's the funniest or most memorable fishing story you've ever heard or experienced?
• Have you ever been tempted by something that looked great at first but turned out to be disappointing?
• Why do you think people are drawn to things that seem exciting even when they know there may be consequences?

Start Thinking:
• Pastor Troy pointed out that temptation isn't sin, but it can lead to sin. Why is that distinction important?
• What does it mean that "every temptation competes with a greater invitation from God"?
• Why are temptations often subtle instead of obvious?
• What role does the “pressure to conform” and the “pressure to explore” play in temptation?
• Why do our choices always have consequences, even when the effects aren't immediate?
• How does knowing that Jesus was tempted help us when we face temptation?
• What stood out to you most about God's role in temptation?

Start Sharing:
• What kinds of temptations are most common in your season of life?
• Have you ever seen a small compromise lead to bigger consequences?
• What helps you recognize temptation before you “take the bait”?
• How have other believers helped you stay faithful during difficult moments?
• What habits help you stay aligned with God’s Word and God’s Spirit?
• Which of the three responses is hardest for you right now: accepting what is true, acknowledging Gods role, or doing your part?

Start Praying:
• Ask God to help you recognize temptation before it takes hold.
• Pray for strength to choose God's invitation over the enemy’s bait.
• Pray for your group to encourage and support one another in the battle against temptation.

Start Doing:
• Identify one area where you need to stay more alert this week.
• Spend time each day in God’s Word to strengthen your awareness and discernment.
• Reach out to another believer for encouragement, accountability, or prayer before and when temptation comes.