Jesus taught us to pray to the Father that we wouldn't be led into temptation (Matthew 6:13). Why? Temptation, while not the same thing as sin, is very powerful and very dangerous. I think that the words the recovery community uses to describe addiction apply to temptation also: cunning, baffling and powerful.
If you've ever felt trapped by something sinful, you know what I mean. Perhaps your struggle isn't with the "headline" sins, like violence or immorality. Perhaps it is of the more difficult-to-detect variety, like self-righteousness, resentment or pride.
When you are ensnared, it seems impossible to break free. Hopelessness can set in.
The antidote to the alluring power of temptation is not determination. To put it in the words of Scottish minister Thomas Chalmers (1780-1847), it is to experience "the expulsive power of a new affection," meaning Christ.
When we are influenced to think that we simply need more will power, we make ourselves the focus. When we realize that Christ Himself is the answer, our focus is fastened on Him. As we marinate in His life, the sinful chains that previously held us, fall away.
Lord Jesus, may we experience the expulsive power of a superior affection- Your power, lest we fall into temptation!