Defeating Temptation
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Defeating Temptation
The Double Standard
We are already no strangers to temptation, as we well know from our past. We begin in sin from birth and live with the attractions of the flesh throughout this earthly life. I recall the popular TV comedy, The Flip Wilson Show of the early 1970s. Flip made famous the catchphrase, "The Devil made me do it," providing us with a comedic excuse to project our accountability for all of our indiscretions on the Devil. On the other hand, while the Apostle James gives us a lesson on the progressive nature of temptation. This also gives us a pragmatic approach to defeating temptation before it gets to the point of sinning. Yes, even Christian believers must deal with this daily because believers are still living in a world dominated by the sinful nature and double standards. The study below, from the book of James, reveals three progressive stages of temptation that end in sin. It doesn't have to end that way though. When faced with a temptation to sin each progressive stage also becomes a warning and recognizing the warning becomes a red flag to help you immediately reject the temptation and avoid the evil.
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James 1:13-15 on Temptation: (KJV w/[modifications]) A breakdown of the verses with notes to help recognize the signs and potential hazards that help avoid being trapped by temptation.
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The Spirit-led Christian must be sensitive to the Spirit and recognize these red flags as warnings. It is always best to reject temptation immediately and defeat it. But caution is warranted because the tempting may come as quickly as the blink of an eye, and you find yourself already engaged at a higher level of warning before you recognize it. The flesh is still powerful even after salvation. Being vigilant and calling on the Holy Spirit in you and Christ to help you reject every temptation will go a long way in defeating the foe and growing in confidence in your holy walk with Christ. The best wall of defense is: --"abstain from the very appearance of evil." (1 Thessalonians 5:22 Paraphrased). My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous. (1John 2:1 KJV) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1John 1:9 KJV) Quotes and Quips |