God does NOT tempt us, however He allows it to happen. He doesn't do this to punish us, rather He allows us to go through these struggles that come upon us as part of our lives in a sinful world. Mostly because they are caused by our own actions. He's doing this for a purpose: to help build our faith and to help us grow spiritually. You see, spiritual growth comes mostly from what we learn in the hard times of our lives, not the easy times.
So, is temptation a test that God puts us through to see if we will pass or fail?
James 1:13-15
When tempted, no one should say, "God is temping me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death!!!
You see, temptation STARTS inside of you, and it will grow and lead you into sin UNLESS you seek God's help to deal with it. We often say that other people are tempting us, but there is no way that anyone can tempt you with something THAT YOU DON'T ALREADY WANT! Let's break that down, if you REALLY didn't want it, would it be called a temptation? NO!
Let's take a look at how we can deal with temptation. I believe there is one verse, no a promise, in the bible that is most important about temptation.
1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. 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 stand up under it.
This is such an important verse to me. God knows we will be tempted by man, by the devil, but he promises that it's nothing we can't handle if we truly follow God! AMEN?
So today, when you feel tempted or someone or something is tempting you, know it's not God. He will not stop it from happening because we live in a world of sin. Instead, he will allow us to overcome the temptation through Jesus Christ. And because of this, our faith will continue to grow.
So I ask you this morning in prayer, to "Put on the whole Armor of God, That you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil!" - Ephesians 6:11
I am tempted every day of my life. But I know these temptations are normal in today's society. And I also know that I can choose to give in or I can choose Jesus to help me. And so far, Jesus has never let me down. He will never let me down. He is there to catch me when I am falling. It's a wonderful thing, you should all get on board! Your world and life will never be the same! AMEN?
BIBLE QUOTE OF THE DAY: Hebrews 2:18
For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.
SONG OF THE DAY: Made For More - B.Reith feat. Lecrae and Lisa Gungor
Have a blessed day everyone and a wonderful God Filled Weekend! Church at Alive Again Alliance Sunday at 10:15. Check our more churches in your area at WWW.IAMSENT.NET
~Scott
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