Saturday, November 18, 2017

Being Tempted - James 1:12-15

James 1:12-15 ESV 


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.


Man is a creature of desire. This is a reflection of being made in the image of God. God seeks men and women after His own heart. 


The desire of man has no restrictions on it to allow mankind the freedom to choose and desire God, or something else. That is shown in the Garden of Eden by the presence of the two trees which signify that freedom of choice. That choice will allow us to respond to love with love. 


This brings the Garden as representing what takes place in the heart of every man and woman. God does not tempt us, but has placed us in a world which competes for our desire. It is by overcoming this world that we reach the presence of the Lord. Jesus has done this and shows us the way. Satan shows us another way which can seem good to a man, but will only lead to destruction. Actually, there are many ways to destruction, but one way that leads to life. 


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