August 23, 2026

Proverbs 27:12 (NLT) - A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.

Learning #1: You can pre-decide to stay alert.

Romans 3:23 (NLT) - For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.

James 1:14-15 (NLT) - Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.

Matthew 4:10 (NLT) - “Get out of here, Satan,” Jesus told him. “For the Scriptures say, ‘You must worship the Lord your God and serve only him.’

1 Corinthians 16:13 (NLT) - Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.

1 Peter 5:8 (NLT) - Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.

Learning #2: You can pre-decide to be honest with yourself about the cost of sin.

John 10:10 (NLT) - The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

2 Corinthians 2:11 (NIV) - (So be ready) in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.

Ephesians 6:11 (NLT) - Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.

Learning #3: You can pre-decide to plan a way out of temptation.

Proverbs 16:18 (NLT) - Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall.

1 Corinthians 6:18 (NLT) - Run from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body.

2 Timothy 2:22 (NLT) - Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.

1 Corinthians 10:13 (NLT) - The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.