James 1:12-15 – Qualities of Temptation

 “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and He Himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”

‭‭James‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬-‭15‬ ‭(ESV‬‬)


Temptation is always looming, waiting for an opportune time to strike. God is always present to take us away from it.

A misconception that I've seen about temptation is that it shows up for some time and goes away, like a cold. I think it's more accurate to think of it as someone that follows us around at all times. Temptation doesn't really go away, it just kind of... waits. We can take its power away by ignoring it, but ultimately, when we become vulnerable, it will gladly lend us some kind of quick gratification at the cost of our general well-being.

Steadfastness was once described to be as constantly keeping pressure on something, like a wound. Whenever I read it, I think of trying to desperately keep pressure on it, making an active decision over and over again to keep holding onto it. Sometimes it's easier to keep my hold than other times, but it's a constant effort. Being steadfast under trial, standing the test of life, in an attempt to prove our love to God – I don't ever want to believe that's not something worth fighting for.

Make no mistake – temptation is the voice telling us to loosen our hold. We'll bleed, surely. But we're so tired. Why delay the inevitable?

Because when I can stop bleeding, I can start growing. Anger, lustful intent, addiction, gluttony, laziness – whatever the bleeding may look like – it all leads to death in the end. My only chance at happiness lies in trusting the Lord for the strength to keep my grip.

That temptation seems so perfect at times, but old wounds open quickly. Thankfully, we can be healed as many times as we need to be. Stay steadfast – it's worth it.

What will my temptation get me? Give me a direction, and the strength to run from it.

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