Yesterday we considered having a ready response to temptation and utilizing the way of escape God provides. Though we do not have control of or over all that goes on around us, we do need to strive to control what goes on within. That is from where temptation arises as James wrote. . .
“(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.” (James1:13-15 ESV)
Remember, God is not the tempter, He is the provider of the escape. (1 Corinthians 10:13) James stated God tempts no one. But someone asks, what about when God told Abraham to offer the son who had been promised? Well, what does the text say?
We read. . .
“(1) After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” (2) He said, “Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.”” (Genesis 22:1-2 ESV)
Was the word “tempt” or “temptation” there? The text tells us “God tested Abraham.” Is there a difference?
When a teacher gives a student a test, that test reveals what the student knows or does not know. Any temptation would be for the student to not take the test seriously or refuse to take it at all because they don’t feel like it and so perhaps place their hope in the scores of previous ones. In the testing of Abraham, we see the revealing of amazing faith to obey God even in what I would consider a confusing situation. In fact, we might consider the temptation to have not obeyed a reasonable one, but Abraham’s faith was shown by this test to be solidly fixed on what God had the power to do! (note Hebrews 11:17-19) It was amazing faith fully surrendered in trusting God!
As we understand temptation has to do with our own personal desires — and the reality what tempts me might not be a temptation to you and vise versa — it is our desires within us which need to be kept in check and under control. To blame another for having given into temptation is passing the buck, but to resist the temptation through the use of God’s pathway is passing the test. Therefore, whatever desires need to change, may we seek the help of God as part of the renewal and restoration He can bring to our life!
Have a great day KEEPING DESIRES IN CHECK!
Carl
———————–
(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
