Why do we have to be tempted (to test, to examine, to prove)? “Consider it PURE 1JOY, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that THE TESTING OF YOUR FAITH PRODUCES PERSEVERANCE (persistence). Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, NOT LACKING ANYTHING.” (James 1:2-4) 1chara; delight, rejoicing! For example. the preparation for medical school usually begins in high school with an emphasis on math and science. Beyond high school, education includes four typical periods: undergraduate education, medical school, residency and, for specialists, a fellowship. A physician’s chosen specialty requires a lengthy period of many tests and trials, their education may take 15 years or longer from the time entering college.
Just who is it that is tempting us? “When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For GOD CANNOT BE TEMPTED BY EVIL, NOR DOES HE TEMPT ANYONE; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away BY THEIR OWN EVIL DESIRE and enticed.” (James 1:13-14)
What shall we do then when we are going through temptation? “God gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “GOD OPPOSES THE PROUD but SHOWS 1FAVOR TO THE HUMBLE.” Submit yourselves, then, to God. RESIST THE DEVIL, and HE WILL FLEE FROM YOU. COME NEAR TO GOD AND HE WILL COME NEAR TO YOU. Wash your hands, and purify your hearts…” (James 4:6-8) 1charis; kindness, graciousness.
OK, we MUST believe what we pray, how then should we pray? “Pray, then, in this way…LEAD US NOT INTO TEMPTATION, but deliver us from the evil one.” (Matt. 6:9, 13)
Look what our awesome Lord and Savior, Jesus has done for us! “For this reason, Jesus had to be made like them, FULLY HUMAN IN EVERY WAY, in order that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that He might make atonement [pacification] for the sins of the people. BECAUSE HE HIMSELF SUFFERED WHEN HE WAS TEMPTED, HE IS ABLE TO 2HELP THOSE WHO ARE BEING TEMPTED.” (Heb. 2:17-18) 2boētheō; to come to the aid of, to provide heavenly support through our trials!
JESUS WILL COME TO OUR AID IF WE ARE BEING TEMPTED TODAY!
-Bill Stockham