English 
Chinese 
Dutch 
Arabic 
Spanish 
Portuguese 
Russian 
French 
Italian 
German 
Japanese Jesus told his disciples to pray about temptation before it comes: “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation” (Matthew 26:41). For the moment itself: “Lord Jesus, you were tempted as I am and did not sin. Show me the way out you promised, and give me the strength to take it. Amen.”
Prayers for the moment temptation comes
These are short enough to say under your breath.
When it starts
Lord, I feel the pull, and I know where it leads. You promised that “with the temptation” you would “also make a way to escape” (1 Corinthians 10:13). Show me the door, and get me up and through it before I start to argue with myself. Amen.
Late at night, alone with a screen
Father, it is late, I am tired, and no one is watching but you. Give me the sense to put the phone down, turn off the screen and go to bed. “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). Amen.
Against temptations of the body
Lord, this desire is strong and it feels like it will never let go. Joseph did not stay to debate; he “fled, and got him out” (Genesis 39:12). Give me that kind of speed, keep my eyes and thoughts clean, and fill the empty hours with something good. Amen.
When you are tempted to lash out
God, I want to say the cruel thing that will win this argument. Close my mouth until I can speak without wounding. Let me answer the way I would want to be answered. Amen.
When money, status or praise is the pull
Lord, I want what others have, and I am tempted to cut a corner to get it. Remind me that you know what I need. Make me honest in small sums and content with what you have given me. Amen.
Before a hard decision
Father, I have to decide, and I am not sure which way is right. Your word says, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him” (James 1:5). I am asking. Make the right choice plain, and give me the courage to take it even if it costs me. Amen.
After you have given in
Lord, I fell again, and I am ashamed. I will not hide it from you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Forgive me, wash me, and help me get up today instead of sinking further tomorrow. Amen.
When the same temptation keeps coming back
God, this is the same fight I have lost many times. Show me what feeds it: the place, the hour, the people, the tiredness. Give me one person I can tell the truth to, and the humility to ask for help. Amen.
If a temptation has become an addiction, to alcohol, drugs, gambling or pornography, prayer goes alongside real help: a doctor, a counselor, a support group or a pastor who will not shame you. If it has brought you to thoughts of ending your life, call or text 988 in the US, or call Samaritans on 116 123 in the UK and Ireland. There are also more Christian and crisis lines.
For a friend who is being tempted
Lord Jesus, before Peter’s worst night you told him, “I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not” (Luke 22:32). I pray the same for [name]. Keep [him or her] standing, and if [he or she] falls, let me help “in the spirit of meekness,” remembering that I can be tempted too (Galatians 6:1). Amen.
Traditional prayers against temptation
The best-known prayer against temptation is the petition Jesus put in the Lord’s Prayer: “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil” (Matthew 6:13). The older service books of each church add their own.
From the Orthodox evening service
Orthodox Christians sing these three short hymns at Great Compline, the late evening service. The English is Isabel Hapgood’s 1906 translation of the Orthodox service book.
The day is past; I thank thee, O Lord: Grant me, I entreat thee, that this evening and this night I fall into no sin; and save me, O my Saviour.
The day is past; I sing praises unto thee, O Master. Grant, I entreat thee, that this evening and this night I may be without guile; and save me, O Saviour.
The day is past: I hymn thee, O Holy One. Grant, I entreat thee, that this evening and this night I may be assailed by no temptation; and save me, O Saviour.
Hapgood, Service Book of the Holy Orthodox-Catholic Apostolic (Greco-Russian) Church (1906), The Office of Grand Compline, p. 152
Later in the same service a prayer of Saint Basil the Great is said. It begins:
O Lord, Lord, who deliverest us from all the arrows that fly by day, deliver thou us, also, from all the things that infest the darkness. Accept our evening sacrifice, even the lifting-up of our hands. Grant that we may pass through the course of the night without sin, untempted of evil things; and deliver us from every alarm and cowardice that cometh to us from the Devil …
Hapgood (1906), The Office of Grand Compline, Prayer of Saint Basil the Great, p. 155
From the Book of Common Prayer
Two Sunday collects in the Episcopal Church’s 1928 prayer book ask for strength against temptation.
O God, who knowest us to be set in the midst of so many and great dangers, that by reason of the frailty of our nature we cannot always stand upright; Grant to us such strength and protection, as may support us in all dangers, and carry us through all temptations; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Book of Common Prayer (1928), Collect for the Fourth Sunday after Epiphany, p. 114
Lord, we beseech thee, grant thy people grace to withstand the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil; and with pure hearts and minds to follow thee, the only God; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Book of Common Prayer (1928), Collect for the Eighteenth Sunday after Trinity, p. 214
Two Catholic prayers
The Manual of Prayers of 1888, prepared by order of the Third Plenary Council of Baltimore, has a prayer for anyone under temptation and one against lust among its prayers against the seven deadly sins.
O God, who justifiest the ungodly, and willest not the death of a sinner: we humbly entreat Thy Majesty to protect Thy servants, who trust in Thy mercy, with Thy heavenly assistance, and preserve them by Thy continual protection; that they may constantly serve Thee, and by no temptation be separated from Thee.
A Manual of Prayers for the Use of the Catholic Laity (1888), Occasional Prayers, “For the Tempted and Afflicted,” p. 168
O Lord Jesus Christ, Guardian of chaste souls, and lover of purity, who wast pleased to take our nature and to be born of an Immaculate Virgin: mercifully look upon my infirmity. Create in me a clean heart, O God: and renew a right spirit within me; help me to drive away all evil thoughts, to conquer every sinful desire, and so pierce my flesh with the fear of Thee that, this worst enemy being overcome, I may serve Thee with a chaste body and please Thee with a pure heart. Amen.
A Manual of Prayers for the Use of the Catholic Laity (1888), Prayers against the Seven Deadly Sins, “Against Lust,” p. 296
How Jesus answered temptation
Matthew’s Gospel says, “Then was Jesus led up of the spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil” (Matthew 4:1). After he had fasted forty days, the tempter came. He answered each of the three temptations with a verse from Deuteronomy, beginning, “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4), and ending, “Get thee hence, Satan” (Matthew 4:10). The psalmist describes the same habit: “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee” (Psalm 119:11).
The Letter to the Hebrews draws a practical conclusion from Jesus’ temptations. He “was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin,” so the tempted can “come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:15–16). The question of how the Son of God could be tempted at all is taken up in Can Jesus be tempted?
Does God tempt people?
The Letter of James says no. “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed” (James 1:13–14).
Being tempted is not itself a sin; Jesus was tempted “yet without sin.” Paul told the Corinthians, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). James adds a promise for the one who holds out: “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life” (James 1:12).
Prayer for Strength Against Temptation
Temptation is a constant battle in our lives, challenging our faith and resolve. This prayer seeks God’s strength to resist the allure of sin and stand firm in our convictions.
Dear Heavenly Father, I come before You humbly, recognizing my weakness in the face of temptation. Your Word tells us that You will not let us be tempted beyond what we can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13), and I cling to that promise.
Lord, fortify my spirit with Your mighty power. When temptation whispers in my ear, help me to hear Your voice more clearly. Give me the wisdom to recognize the deception of sin and the courage to turn away from it.
Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, that I may find joy and satisfaction in following Your ways rather than the fleeting pleasures of this world. Let Your love be my shield and Your truth my sword as I face the daily battles against temptation.
Grant me the strength to resist, the faith to persevere, and the grace to always turn to You in times of weakness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer reminds us that we are not alone in our struggle against temptation. God’s strength is always available to us, empowering us to overcome and grow stronger in our faith.
Prayer for Discernment in Tempting Situations
Recognizing temptation can be challenging, especially when it comes in subtle forms. This prayer asks for God’s guidance to discern right from wrong and make wise choices.
Gracious God, I seek Your wisdom and discernment in a world full of temptations. Your Word says, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).
Lord, sharpen my spiritual senses to recognize temptation in all its forms. When faced with choices that could lead me astray, illuminate the path of righteousness. Help me to see beyond immediate gratification and consider the long-term consequences of my actions.
Fill my mind with Your truth, so that I may quickly identify lies and deceptions. Give me the courage to seek Your will in all situations, even when it means going against popular opinion or my own desires.
May Your Holy Spirit guide me in every decision, big and small, so that I may honor You in all I do. Grant me the wisdom to choose what is right and pleasing in Your sight. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer emphasizes the importance of spiritual alertness and seeking God’s wisdom in our daily lives. It encourages us to rely on God’s guidance to navigate the complex moral landscape we face.
Prayer for Overcoming Specific Temptations
We all have particular weaknesses that the enemy exploits. This prayer focuses on seeking God’s help to overcome our individual struggles with temptation.
Loving Father, You know my heart and the specific temptations that I struggle with daily. I come to You, trusting in Your power to overcome these challenges, for Your Word assures us, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Lord, I confess my weakness in the face of [specific temptation]. It has held power over me for too long. I ask for Your divine intervention to break its grip on my life. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, renewing my mind and transforming my desires.
When this temptation arises, remind me of Your love and the freedom You’ve given me through Christ. Help me to see myself as You see me – forgiven, loved, and empowered to live in victory.
Give me strategies to avoid situations that trigger this temptation. Surround me with supportive people who will encourage me in my walk with You. Let Your strength be made perfect in my weakness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer acknowledges our personal struggles and invites God’s transformative power into our lives. It reminds us that with God’s help, we can overcome even our most persistent temptations.
Prayer for Protection from Temptation
Prevention is often better than cure. This prayer seeks God’s protection to shield us from temptation before it even reaches us.
Heavenly Father, I come before You, recognizing my need for Your divine protection against the temptations of this world. Your Son taught us to pray, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil” (Matthew 6:13), and I echo that plea today.
Lord, build a hedge of protection around my heart and mind. Guard my eyes from seeing evil and my ears from hearing wickedness. When temptation approaches, alert my spirit and give me the strength to flee from it.
Fill my life with Your presence, leaving no room for the enemy to gain a foothold. Help me to put on the full armor of God, that I may stand firm against the schemes of the devil.
Guide my steps away from situations that might compromise my faith. Surround me with godly influences that strengthen my resolve to live for You. May Your protective hand be upon me always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer reminds us of our need for God’s constant protection and guidance. It encourages us to be proactive in avoiding temptation and to rely on God’s strength to keep us safe.
Prayer for Resisting Worldly Temptations
The world often presents alluring temptations that can lead us away from God. This prayer seeks strength to resist these worldly enticements and remain focused on eternal values.
Dear Lord, in a world that constantly tempts us with material possessions, status, and fleeting pleasures, I turn to You for strength. Your Word reminds us, “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them” (1 John 2:15).
Father, help me to see the emptiness of worldly temptations. When I’m tempted by materialism, remind me of the true riches found in You. When status and recognition beckon, let me find my worth in Your love alone.
Give me eyes to see beyond the glitter of temporary pleasures to the lasting joy of walking with You. Fill my heart with Your presence, so that I may find complete satisfaction in You.
Grant me the courage to be different, to stand firm in my faith even when the world entices me to compromise. May my life be a testimony to Your goodness and sufficiency. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer encourages us to find our true satisfaction in God, rather than in the temporary pleasures of the world. It reminds us of the importance of maintaining an eternal perspective in the face of worldly temptations.
Prayer for Healing from Past Temptations
Sometimes, we carry guilt and shame from past failures in resisting temptation. This prayer seeks God’s healing and restoration from the effects of yielding to temptation.
Merciful Father, I come before You burdened by the weight of past failures and the times I’ve given in to temptation. I’m grateful that Your Word assures us, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).
Lord, I confess the times I’ve yielded to temptation and ask for Your forgiveness. Wash me clean and renew a right spirit within me. Help me to forgive myself as You have forgiven me.
Heal the wounds that my sins have caused – in my own life and in the lives of others. Restore what the enemy has stolen through my moments of weakness. Let Your love overwhelm any lingering shame or guilt.
Use my past failures to make me stronger and wiser. Help me to extend the same grace to others that You’ve shown to me. Transform my story into a testimony of Your redeeming power. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer reminds us of God’s forgiveness and healing power. It encourages us to let go of past failures and embrace the new life God offers us, free from guilt and shame.
Prayer for Community Support in Temptation
We weren’t meant to face temptation alone. This prayer asks for God’s help in building supportive relationships that can encourage us in times of temptation.
Loving God, You’ve created us for community, and I thank You for the support of fellow believers. Your Word tells us to “encourage one another daily… so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness” (Hebrews 3:13).
Lord, bring godly friends into my life who will stand with me against temptation. Give me the humility to be open about my struggles and the courage to ask for help when I need it.
Help me to be that kind of friend to others, offering support, accountability, and encouragement in their battles against temptation. Let our community be a place of grace, where we can be honest about our weaknesses and celebrate victories together.
Guide us to spur one another on toward love and good deeds. May our relationships reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name as we help each other resist temptation and grow in faith. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer emphasizes the importance of Christian community in our fight against temptation. It reminds us that we are stronger together and encourages us to both seek and offer support.
Prayer for Renewing the Mind Against Temptation
Our thought life is often the battleground where temptation begins. This prayer seeks God’s help in transforming our minds to resist temptation at its source.
Heavenly Father, I recognize that the battle against temptation often begins in my mind. Your Word instructs us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).
Lord, I invite Your transforming power into my thought life. Cleanse my mind from impure, negative, or destructive thoughts. Fill it instead with Your truth, Your beauty, and Your goodness.
When tempting thoughts arise, give me the discipline to take them captive and make them obedient to Christ. Help me to dwell on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.
Reshape my desires to align with Your will. Let my mind be a fountain of life-giving thoughts that honor You and bless others. May my renewed mind be a powerful defense against temptation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer focuses on the importance of mental discipline in resisting temptation. It encourages us to actively engage in the process of renewing our minds through God’s Word and presence.
Prayer for Strength in Moments of Weakness
We all have moments when our resolve weakens and temptation seems overwhelming. This prayer seeks God’s immediate intervention in those critical moments.
Dear God, I come to You acknowledging my moments of weakness when temptation feels too strong to resist. I’m grateful that Your Word promises, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Lord, in those moments when my will is wavering and temptation is strong, make Your presence known to me. Remind me of Your love and the price You paid for my freedom from sin.
Give me the courage to call out to You for help, even in the midst of temptation. Strengthen my resolve to choose what honors You, even when it’s difficult. Let Your Holy Spirit empower me to stand firm.
Help me to recognize the way out that You always provide. May I lean on Your strength, not my own, in these moments of weakness. Let each victory over temptation draw me closer to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer reminds us that God’s strength is available to us even in our weakest moments. It encourages us to rely on God’s power rather than our own willpower when facing strong temptations.
Prayer for Gratitude as a Shield Against Temptation
Cultivating a grateful heart can be a powerful defense against temptation. This prayer focuses on developing gratitude as a way to resist the allure of sin.
Gracious Father, I come before You with a heart full of thanks for all You’ve given me. Your Word tells us to “give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18), and I believe this gratitude can shield me from temptation.
Lord, open my eyes to see the abundance of blessings in my life. When temptation tries to convince me that I’m lacking something, remind me of the richness of Your love and provision.
Help me to cultivate a habit of thanksgiving, counting my blessings daily. Let gratitude fill my heart, leaving no room for discontent or covetousness that often lead to temptation.
May my thankful spirit be a testimony to Your goodness, drawing others to You. Let my gratitude strengthen my resolve to honor You with my choices and resist the empty promises of temptation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer emphasizes the power of gratitude in combating temptation. It encourages us to focus on God’s blessings rather than what we might feel we’re missing out on when tempted.
Prayer for Victory Over Recurring Temptations
Some temptations seem to come back again and again, wearing down our resolve. This prayer seeks God’s help in achieving lasting victory over persistent temptations.
Almighty God, I come to You weary from battling recurring temptations that seem to never let up. I’m encouraged by Your promise that “everyone born of God overcomes the world” (1 John 5:4).
Lord, I need Your supernatural power to break the cycle of these persistent temptations. Where I have been weak, make me strong. Where I have failed before, lead me to victory.
Help me to identify the root causes of these recurring temptations. Give me wisdom to make necessary changes in my life that will starve these temptations of their power.
Fill me afresh with Your Holy Spirit. Let Your power work mightily in me, transforming my desires and empowering me to live in consistent victory. May each triumph over these temptations be a testament to Your faithfulness and power. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
This prayer acknowledges the challenge of dealing with persistent temptations and seeks God’s intervention for lasting change. It encourages us to partner with God in addressing the root causes of recurring temptations.
Leave a Reply