James 1:12-15 – “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. 15 Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.”  NKJV

 

I have known some people who almost became Monkish in their lifestyle after responding to the Gospel message of salvation.  They had the idea that if they could isolate themselves from ‘temptation’ they would be able to live a godly life.  The flaw in that thinking is multiple but one particular flaw is we are commanded to ‘go into all the world’ not become ‘isolated from the world’.  We are told to ‘come out and be separate’ but that separation is not a physical isolation but a decided change in lifestyle and attitude.  It is to become so attached to and filled with God and His love that we are distinctively different from the world.

Temptation is something that can either make us stronger or shipwreck us and that is dependent upon our response.  James presents the idea that if we ‘endure’ or ‘overcome’ temptation refusing to give in to its lure we will find incredible benefit spiritually.  Some almost seem to blame God for temptation that comes to them and I suggest that it is an ‘inside job’ more than an external stimuli.

Notice what James says about temptation and the process:

• Temptation DRAWS away from the right path.

Temptation could have no appeal if there was not something ‘inside’ to which it could appeal.  It is an identification of a kink in the armor, a possible deficiency in character and an evidence that there is something not fully committed to Christ and crucified on the Cross.  I am not suggesting that the one tempted is not saved rather the one tempted has something that still needs to be brought to the Cross where the spiritual surgeon can remove it roots.  Therefore, temptation is truly an inside job and the outside stimuli used of the devil is what brings it to light.  Once in the light it should be presented at the altar not nurtured, justified or excused.  Saying, “Everyone is tempted sometime” is not a good approach.  We should say, “Lord this temptation is exposing a weakness in me and I ask you to make me strong through your grace.” \

• Temptation not dealt with PRODUCES death.

Notice how James takes the progression of temptation:  It springs from internal desires and when that desire is given life it gives birth to sin and when sin runs its course it produces death.  That death is both natural and spiritual in nature.  It all springs from a condition of the heart.  It is an indication that in that particular area of your life self is still king.  It could be physical gratification, greed, pride, a quest for power or position or ego.  Whatever cultivates the desire that gives rise to temptation if left unchecked will result in spiritual death!

Please hear me, being tempted is not sin but allowing temptation to go unchecked produces sin.  We should rejoice in those areas of our lives being exposed to the light of God’s holiness so we can overcome them and mature into a perfect man/woman in God.  If we understand that temptation is an inside job we will more readily respond rightly to it and find victory in the grace and mercy of our Lord!

            God bless you as you go through this day!