Living Victoriously
Read James 1:12 – 18
“Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him” (James 1:12)
When we are under Trial
"Blessed is the man" describes the enviable state of a person who does not give up when faced with trying circumstances. Without wavering, he remains steadfast in his faith and is approved for his righteousness. In turn, he will receive the “crown of life”—the assurance of eternal life. This crown is awarded to those who, like victorious athletes, have shown their love for God by standing firm in His word.
Lust - The Cause of Us Yielding to Temptation
It is not God or the devil who tempts us to sin. God cannot be tempted by evil, and He does not tempt anyone. The door to temptation opens when we are carried away and enticed by our own lust. When we yield to it, it conceives and gives birth to sin. If we continue to let sin reign in our lives, it will eventually run its course and bring forth death.
God Only Give Good and Perfect Gift
In contrast to the evil brought about by our own lust, we can be assured that God gives only good gifts to His children. His gifts are perfect, and there is no inconsistency or unpredictability in the goodness He pours out upon us. He is the Father of lights, the Creator of the universe. While lust, when conceived, leads to sin and death, God's word of truth, when conceived, leads to life. We are His esteemed first fruits—the absolute best among His creatures.
Application
Recognize our weakness. Avoid going to places that will lead you into temptation. Find spiritual fathers to mentor and walk alongside you. Choose never to walk alone.
Prayer
Lord, we pray, just as 1 Corinthians 10:13 say that God is faithful and He will not let me be tempted beyond my ability, but when I am tempted, Lord protect me and provide the way of escape for me and to give me strengths to be able to resist and stand firm. Amen.
James 1:12 - 18
12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one.14 But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. 15 Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.
16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. 18 Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.