Read James 1:13-15 NIV
“When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when its full-grown, gives birth to death.”
I’ll tell you right now, it’s impossible for me to be tempted with peas. In any form. I hate them. Maybe it’s the smell, the texture, or maybe it’s a traumatic childhood pea incident.. No, you can’t make anything out of peas that I will like, sorry.
I wish it were the same with ice cream. You see, while I am absolutely puritanical in my crusade against peas, ice cream remains a great temptation.
James says that God does not tempt us as he himself cannot be tempted by evil. This matters because God is our advocate and supporter. In fact, Paul tells us:
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
The idea of sin, according to James, is that each person is tempted by their own desire. In verse 15, he takes us through the life cycle of sin, from conception to death, and (if we’re honest) it resonates with all of us. The cool thing is that God is faithful to help provide a way out!
Pray:
“Father God, thank you that you will not tempt me and that when I am tempted, you are faithful to provide an escape. I pray that you would bring to mind the areas of sin and temptation present in my life, and how to pray for your help. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
