Tempted (James 1:13-15)

- God is never the source of temptation or sin. Instead of blaming God, we must take personal responsibility for our sins. We must deal with our inner trials. It starts with a desire of the flesh/an evil desire in the mind. Temptation = enticement to sin. If pursued, that desire gives birth to sin in our life. That sin grows and brings forth death (spiritual death which is in contrast to the life God gives to those who love Him and faithfully persevere under trials/temptations in verse 12).
- As Christ’s followers, we’re in a constant battle between our sinful nature and our new nature. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can rise above the flesh.
- In Romans 7:15-24, we can see that Paul also had this inner struggle. I love the verses that follow: “Thanks be to God, Who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!...Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” (Romans 7:25a, 8:1-2)