Nougat 24

How do we deal with temptation? Can we even recognize temptation? Hopefully, today’s Holy Nougat and the reflection will offer some insights.

“And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else.” ‭‭James‬ ‭1:13‬ ‭NLT‬‬

It is hard, when undergoing trials, to avoid blaming others for our issues. And, if truth be told, that (ie the urge to blame someone) is the temptation. But let’s not get too sidetracked; temptation doesn’t only appear when trouble comes; we are tempted and tried all the time. While it is not included among life’s certainties, there is no question that temptation is a given. Even Jesus was tempted.

But

Facing temptation doesn’t mean it came from God. Certainly not. Falling for that means that we actually have yielded to temptation yet again. And God’s desire is for us to excel; not fail. Hence the assurance in Jeremiah 29:11. God’s plans for us don’t include destroying us. It’s to prosper us, give us hope for the future.

So

What then do we do with temptation?

Temptation is any thought, expectation, action or statement that seeks to finish or deny God’s sovereignty over our lives. So, we have to recognize temptation, for not every temptation can be immediately recognized. Nor does it present in the same format each time. It comes as thoughts, dares, direct words, images, peer pressure, dares, doubt and even affirmations.

Temptation arises when we are happy, sad, bored, annoyed, angry, hopeful and/or emotionally strong. It is not respecting of class, race, health or gender. So we must be on the lookout for it. For anything that has the potential to destroy or diminish our relationship with our loving, giving Creator can be seen as a form of temptation.

And I believe that’s why temptation does not originate with God. For why would God, knowing our proclivity to sin, offer us a prime opportunity to walk away from God’s will and purpose? Because that is what temptation does. It invites us, you and I, to turn our backs (and hearts) from the God of our salvation.

Recognizing temptation thus gives us the opportunity to overcome. James 4:7 tells us to Submit to God; Resist the devil and watch him flee. Of course, it begins with submission. Us allowing God free reign over EVERY aspect of our lives. For any area left out of God’s jurisdiction is fair game for the devil. Resistance means that we oppose and block every opportunity and move presented to us by the devil; as we focus on God. And, though he flees to come again; the devil will flee.

So, whatever the temptation we face, let’s remember that God didn’t send it. And if God didn’t send it; then God already has a way out. And that’s a conversation for another day.

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May all we seek be found in Christ