Intro: In Joshua 10 we learned of the defeat of the southern kings of Canaan. In chapter 11 we read of the defeat of the northern kings, and the coming of peace to the land. The conquering of the land of Canaan by Israel is a "type," a symbol, of the Christian's struggle and victory over sin in his/her life. Israel defeated the Canaanites by following Joshua, and putting their faith in Jehovah, rather than in their natural strength. How can the Christian get victory over sin?

The Christian's three enemies, or sources of temptation, have often been listed as "The world, the flesh and the Devil." This is scriptural, and we shall take these sources of temptation one at a time, and see how to get the victory.

I. How can we get victory over the world? Change our mindset.
A. The world has molded us (but see Romans 12:2).
B. Stop loving the "world." (Not the physical planet, but worldliness). I John 2:15-17
C. The 10th commandments says to quit coveting.
D. Paul told Timothy to beware of materialism (I Tim. 6:6-11, 17-19)
E. Christ didn't send us out to compete with the wolves. We don't want what they
want (do we?) We are sheep among wolves, hard for some to swallow.

II. How can Christians get victory over the flesh?
A. Recognize the problem. The body is not neutral, but it is corrupt and is a source
of temptation (I Co. 15:50-54 "mortal and corrupt.)
B. Paul describes bodily inclinations and their power in Romans 7:18, 22-25.
C. In order to have victory, we must keep our bodies under control.
1. I Corinthians 9:27 Paul disciplines his body.
2. Jesus said to discipline the body (Matthew 5:27-30). His point, "Don't let
your body make you the slave of sin. Keep your body under control."
D. How can we get victory over our bodies?
1. Pray for God's help, before and during temptations.
2. Read God's Word, especially about the consequences of sin.
3. Married people should help each other (I Co. 7:1-5). Make your marriage
strong, for your sake, and for your spouses' sake.
4. Join AA or the Weigh Down Workshop. It helps to fight sin together.
5. Fill your mind with good thoughts, and your life with good deeds,
and thus crowd out sins (Philippians 4:8-9).
6. Don't give up! You will be tempted by your body, as long as you have a body.

III. How to have victory over Satan? Jesus showed us what to do (Luke 4:1-13).
Victory over the world and the flesh has a lot to do with living a Christian lifestyle.
Victory over Satan has more to do with holding to Biblical doctrine.
A. Jesus memorized and quoted scripture to Satan (could you have done?)
B. Why THOSE verses? What do they teach? Three principals.
1. Luke 4:4 "Don't live by bread alone." (Live by God's Word.)
2. Luke 4:8 "Serve only Jehovah." (There's only one Way, one God.)
3. Luke 4:12 "Don't tempt God." (The necessity of fearing God.)

Conclusion: Joshua and Israel conquered the promised land. Christians have enlisted in a battle to fight temptations from the world, the flesh and the devil. May the Lord help us and grant us victory, as we trust in the Savior! Amen.