Temptation Part Three | Pastor Kevin Poage

In tonight’s study, Pastor Kevin wraps up our three-part series on Temptation by zeroing in on the three emotions that most often trip us up: fear, worry, and anxiety. Drawing on key scriptures—2 Timothy 1:7, Matthew 6:25–34, Philippians 4:6–7, Proverbs 12:25, and more—Pastor Kevin defines each term, shows how the enemy uses them against us, and reminds us that God never intended us to walk under their weight. He shares personal stories (like his harrowing trailer‐gate tailgate experience) and Old Testament examples (think Elijah in the wilderness) to illustrate how easily we can be driven from confidence into despair—yet how powerfully God meets us when we cast our cares on Him. Plus, get a sneak peek at next week’s brand-new series: “Seeing Christ in the Old Testament.”

Three Main Takeaways

1. Know Your Enemy and Your Ally

   • Fear is an emotion triggered by perceived danger; worry is dwelling on “what-ifs”; anxiety is the heaviness of uncertainty.

   • God equips us with power, love, and a sound mind to overcome all three (2 Timothy 1:7).

2. Trust Transforms Turmoil into Peace

   • Worry never changes outcomes, but surrendering our cares to God unlocks His supernatural peace (Philippians 4:6–7).

   • Remember: “Worry pulls tomorrow’s clouds over today’s sunshine,” but worship turns our eyes back to God and magnifies His greatness over our problems.

3. Practical Steps to Walk Free

   1. Stay Present: Focus on today’s challenges—tomorrow’s trials will arrive in God’s timing.

   2. Worship Often: Replace fear’s spotlight on problems with praise that magnifies God.

   3. Stay Connected: Isolation deepens depression. Gather with God’s people, share burdens, and let others pray you through (1 Peter 5:7; Proverbs 12:25).