Sunday, October 9, 2016

Temptation. James 1:12-18

James 1 NASB
12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once 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 being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin Is accomplished, it brings forth death. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. 18 In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures.
Temptation: a strong urge or desire to have or do something; something that causes a strong urge or desire to have or do something and especially something that is bad, wrong, or unwise.
There are many reasons for falling into temptation. Addiction, selfishness, thrill or just an unclean heart. There are also many excuses for giving into temptation. Dissatisfaction, unhappiness or the "I deserve this" attitude. It's also very difficult to resist temptation. Why? Because it's momentary gratification.
Since temptation is a strong urge to do something that is bad, wrong or unwise, giving in to temptation leads to sin. Sin leads to death, separation from God and a victory for Satan. 
If you're struggling with temptation today, you can overcome it. It's not easy but is possible. Get help, get support. When you have been delivered from it, the victory is so worth the struggle. And the strengthened relationship with Christ is the reward. 
Blessings, Cecilia

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