Temptation

Think for a moment about what tempts you. Got a picture of that (or those) temptation in your mind? Now, ask yourself where temptation originates. Does it come from God? And also, consider a practical question, what's the most effective way to deal with temptation?

Let's see what light the Bible sheds on this matter.

Receive

James 1:12-15 answers both our questions. It tells us clearly and succinctly about God and temptation.

"God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, "God is tempting me." God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death" (James 1:12-15, NLT).

• How does God expect you to respond to temptation?
• What will be the end result if you properly handle temptation?
• Does God tempt you?
• Where does temptation come from?
• What's the result of giving in to the temptation?

Reflect

Have you ever been tempted and sinned, and then when you looked back on it, you realized that you walked right into that temptation. Maybe you ignored the warning signs, or for some reason, thought you could handle the temptation. Well, Scripture tells us exactly what we should do in such a situation.

Don't do as the wicked do,
and don't follow the path of evildoers.
Don't even think about it; don't go that way.
Turn away and keep moving" (Proverbs 4:14-15 NLT).

"Run from anything that stimulates youthful lust. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts" (2 Timothy 2:22).

• Write down the best action to take when tempted?
• Plan ahead. Determine how you can avoid situations where you may be tempted.
• If you find yourself in a tempting situation, ask the Lord for His strength to get out of the setting as fast as you can. This is the time to run first; pray later. Or better still, run first--while you are praying!

Respond

Jesus Himself taught us to pray,

"Don't let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one" (Matthew 6:13, NLT).

That's a wonderful petition to pray not only for ourselves but for others. Here's what Dr. Woodrow Kroll, radio Bible teacher at Back to Bible, shared from his life: "I've often been asked what I pray for my children. I never pray for my girls to be great women of faith. I never pray for my son, who's a pastor by the way, I never pray for him to become a great preacher of the Word. But I do pray this for my children; I've always prayed, 'Lord, don't let them fall into sin' because I figure as long as they stay away from temptation and don't wander down a path that leads them into sin, God will take care of the rest of their lives."

Make this your prayer this week as well.