“But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.” – James 1:14
We often misunderstand temptation as an external force that overpowers us. But James 1:14 makes it clear that temptation begins within us. It is the enticement that arises from our own selfish desires, a lure that pulls us away from God’s will and toward our own sinful way of satisfying them.
The desire for love, acceptance, or security is normal and natural. But when we try to fill those legitimate needs in an illegitimate way, apart from God’s design or boundaries, we fall into temptation. The problem may not necessarily be the desire, but rather the manner in which we choose to satisfy it.
Jesus demonstrated this perfectly during his temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11). When Satan tempted him to turn stones into bread, it wasn’t wrong for Jesus to be hungry or to desire food. The temptation lay in satisfying his hunger apart from God’s provision and timing. Jesus resisted by standing firm on God’s Word, showing us that the right way to meet our needs is to trust God’s way and timing. When we pursue our desires in a Godly way, have you ever noticed how we don’t feel guilt, shame and regret? That’s because we’re trusting God to meet all our needs according to His design.
So today, think about what areas of your life might be susceptible to temptation. What legitimate needs are you trying to fulfill in ways that go against God’s will?
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 Cor. 10:13
Former Blackout Artist 