Standing Strong During the Holidays: Overcoming Temptation Through Christ

The holidays are often called the most wonderful time of the year, but for many of us, they can also be the most challenging. Between the constant flow of alcohol at parties, the abundance of indulgent food, and the weight of emotions like loneliness, grief, or even depression, this season can feel like walking through a battlefield of temptation.

It reminds me of Martika’s iconic 1980s hit, “Toy Soldiers.” While most people saw it as a relationship song, its deeper message about the battle with addiction strikes a chord. Lyrics like “only emptiness remains, it replaces all the pain” and “bit by bit, torn apart” speak to the heartbreaking cycle of addiction—be it drugs, alcohol, food, or even unhealthy habits like overindulging in media or relationships.

We are like those toy soldiers, marching on in our own strength, only to fall again. But here’s the good news: as Christians, we are not called to fight these battles alone.

Temptation vs. Testing: Knowing the Difference

First, let’s make an important distinction: temptation does not come from the Lord. James 1:13 reminds us, “When tempted, no one should say, ‘God is tempting me.’ For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone.” Temptation is a tool of the devil, designed to lead us astray and into sin.

However, God does allow our faith to be tested. Testing strengthens us and draws us closer to Him. The key difference is this: testing builds, but temptation seeks to destroy. Thankfully, God’s Word promises that “He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

This promise is a lifeline during the holiday season when temptation often feels overwhelming.

The Holidays: A Perfect Storm of Struggles

For many, the holidays bring unique struggles:

Food Addiction: Tables overflowing with rich food can be especially hard for those battling gluttony or unhealthy eating habits.
Alcohol Temptation: Social drinking can easily spiral into overindulgence, and for those in recovery, the holidays can be a minefield.
Loneliness and Depression: Missing loved ones or unresolved grief can lead us to seek comfort in things that numb the pain but ultimately leave us emptier.

These struggles aren’t unique to one person—they’re battles many of us face. And yet, there is hope.

Overcoming in Christ

Trying to overcome temptation in our own flesh is like a toy soldier trying to win a war. It’s exhausting, futile, and leaves us defeated. But when we surrender these struggles to Christ, we tap into His power, which is far greater than anything we face.

Lean on Scripture
God’s Word is our weapon against temptation. Jesus Himself used Scripture to resist the devil’s temptations in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). Verses like “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7) remind us of the power we have in Christ.
Pray Without Ceasing
Temptation thrives in isolation, but prayer connects us to God’s strength. Bring your struggles to Him, no matter how small or shameful they feel.
Seek Community
The enemy wants us to fight alone, but we are called to support one another as the Body of Christ. Whether it’s through a church group, a recovery program, or a trusted friend, don’t isolate yourself.
Stay Vigilant
As 1 Peter 5:8 says, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” Recognize the traps ahead—be it an overly indulgent party or a stressful family gathering—and prepare your heart with prayer and accountability.

A Season for Victory

The holidays don’t have to be a season of defeat. They can be a time of victory when we lean on Christ and remember that the temptations we face are not greater than His strength in us. Romans 8:37 reminds us, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”

So as you navigate the food-laden tables, the overflowing wine glasses, and the emotional waves of the season, remember: you are not a toy soldier marching to inevitable defeat. You are a child of God, equipped with His Spirit and capable of standing strong.

Take the time to reflect on His goodness, lean into His Word, and let this season be not one of temptation, but of triumph in Him.

And when the battle feels tough, remember that the victory was already won on the cross. Let’s march forward in that truth—and into the New Year with hearts full of faith, gratitude, and hope.