James 1:12 NASB 12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial [temptations]; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
Temptation Definition:
“Temptation is more than just a fleeting desire; it’s a pull toward sin and away from God’s will.”
Dudley Rutherford
EERDMANS The
New Bible Dictionary:
The biblical idea of temptation is not primarily of seduction [to sin] but of
making trial of a person, or putting him to the test.
James 1:2-5 NASB
13 No one is to say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it has run its course, brings forth death.
Steps to break your relationship with God
Step one: Lust forms in your heart over whatever cookie you desire
Step two: Lust gives birth to sin. Sin being the breaking of God’s rules
Step three: Sin, when it has run its course , brings forth death
James 1:15 Then when lust has conceived [syllambano], it gives birth to sin; and sin,…
Conceived = syllambano: Meaning: taken you as a prisoner / captive, used in John 18:12 when Jesus is arrested / seized
James 1:16-18 NASB
16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers and sisters. 17 Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. 18 In the exercise of His will He gave us birth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures.
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Overcoming Temptation App: Step #1 I.D. the Source of Temptation
-Where does Temptation come from?
The World :: Satan :: Our Lust / Desire (James 1:14, 15)
“self-deception is the parent of evil of all temptations”
Oats
Jeremiah 17:9 NIV
The heart is deceitful above all things.
Overcoming Temptation App: Step #2 Consider the Consequences
Need to step back and consider the long game
James 1:19 NASB
19 You know this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Now everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; 20 for a man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness of God.
Look down the road to see where your actions lead.
Deuteronomy 32:29 If only they were wise and they understood this; If only they would discern their future!
Be wise in considering where your choices lead
Overcoming Temptation App: Step #3 Know Your Weaknesses
-How do you find your weaknesses?
Ask God to reveal them - Ask a close Christian friend or family member.
Overcoming Temptation App: Step 4 Cleaning Spree
James 1:21a NASB 21 Therefore, ridding yourselves of all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness,
Overcoming Temptation App: Step 5 Resisting
James 1:19b in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls.
Read your bible
Overcoming Temptation App: Step 6 Go on the Offensive
James 1:22 NASB 22 But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves.
Sometimes we forget that what God expects is for us to live out His commands.