Preparing for the Charge
Temptation

Scripture Reading:  James 1:12-18

Key Verse: James 1:12

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

Yesterday’s devotional described the war that all believers are engaged in.  Today we are looking at a weapon of the evil one: temptation.  When you feel tempted, you are being “called out” to the battle.  At that moment, your training will be tested.  Our printed key verse says, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial.”  When temptation comes our way, the Apostle James wants us to remember some facts about this weapon of the evil one.

            First, it is indeed of the evil one—God does not tempt anyone to do evil.  God allows us to be tested, but He would never allure us into evil.  Secondly, when we are tempted, it is our desires that are being enticed.  We never get so spiritual in this life that our desires of the flesh can’t be enticed to do evil.  This is not heaven and we are not yet glorified.  Therefore, we must be on our guard when temptation comes our way.

            The third fact about temptation is it is progressive in nature.  It comes as a thought to our minds.  We can dismiss it immediately or allow that thought to stay.  If it stays, it grows or “conceives” and will give birth to sin, according to James 1:15.  The last stage of sin is to bring forth death to our spiritual lives.  We must never allow sin to become a permanent guest in our hearts.

Father, I pray for a rest from the test of temptation today, but if it does come, grant me your grace for the race!  In Jesus’ name, amen.