Temptation Is Not Sin

                                                   When The Door Slams 

Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God" [for temptation does not originate from God, but from our own flaws]; for God cannot be tempted by [what is] evil, and He Himself tempts no one. But each one is tempted when he is dragged away, enticed and baited [to commit sin] by his own[worldly] desire (lust, passion). Then when the illicit desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin has run its course, it gives birth to death.                                                                            James 1:13-15 

        Now that you have become a Christian you are much more sensitive to the struggle with temptation. Part of this battle is misunderstanding what temptation actually is. Through prayer and study of God's Word you will recognize scriptural insights that will help you to live an overcoming life. 

        Temptation is in one way an enticement, an appeal to the old way of living. In another sense it is a solicitation to do evil and a testing of your commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ. It can appear in the form of an influence, bribe, inducement, attraction, seduction, persuasion or allurement. Temptation is many things, but it is not sin. These two are often confused and consequently difficulties show itself. 

        Think about this: Temptation is like a "sales pitch," while sin is the actual purchase. The product does not have to be bought no matter how tempting it may appear. With God's help your attention can be given to only those things which will draw us closer to Jesus Christ the Son of the living God.  

Affirmation: Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, And the man who gains understanding, For its profit is greater than that of silver, And its gain than fine gold. She is more precious than jewels, And nothing I desire compare with her. Long life is in her right hand; In her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways, And all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who embrace her, And happy are those who hold her fast.                  (Proverbs 3:13-18)   

Wisdom is foremost; therefore I will get wisdom, and though it coats all I have, I will get understanding. I will esteem her, and she will exalt me; I will embrace her, and she will honor me (Proverbs 4:7-8).

Ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the LORD and thank Him for His forgiveness.          

                                                        Never Rest Ministries