12 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. 13 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. 14 But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. 15 Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers.
- What does the phrase "remain steadfast under trial" bring to mind?
- Why are temptations "necessary"?
- Where do temptations come from?
- What is the difference between wanting and being "lured and enticed" for something?
- Where does the trial come in the temptation-to-sin process?
- Where does deception come in the temptation-to-sin process?
It seems today that if something happens to us, we look for something or someone to blame. The same applies to temptations. In the 70's a popular saying was "The devil made me do it." In Genesis 3:1-7 we see how Satan works in rather clear detail. In 1 John 2:16-17 we see that it is our eyes, our flesh, and our pride that is at the core of sin. Throughout our society we see people making foolish choices because they want something and ignore the consequences. I know I have done this. James is warning us to watch for the temptation before it becomes desire. And the temptations will keep on coming until we die. That's were the remaining steadfast comes into play. Stand firm today, folks.
No comments:
Post a Comment