When we are tempted, how and where we focus is important. Relative to dealing with temptation there are at least three directions in which to look: within, ahead, and upward. Let us consider the first of these three today.
When it comes to temptation, some want to play the blame game regarding the enticement of others or the circumstances and situations in which one finds themselves as being the cause. However, the need is for a more personal look than that. What is going on within us? What marks the personal desires of our heart? There is the urgent need to honestly and humbly look within ourselves.
James noted where it all begins where we read. . .
“(13) 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. (14) But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. (15) Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.” (James 1:13-15 ESV)
Temptation does not come from God, but from the world around us (note also 1 John 2:16) and only becomes a temptation due to our own personal desires. Left unchecked, James noted the ultimate point to which the enticement can lead. If the desire is not there, there is no temptation. If the lure is, we have an inner issue with which to deal. Therefore, let us understand how we must give due consideration to what is being fostered within our heart and mind; what it is we most desire? May we continue considering our own personal desires and replace whatever is impure or ungodly with the greater desire to please and glorify God rather than merely pleasing self in the moment!
Have a great day DULY DEALING WITH DESIRE!
Carl
