There is much to say on this very and as we go through verse 15 some misconceptions I have had to correct. First, may we pray that our hearts are open to being transformed through the Word of God. That we can change our mindsets according to scripture, rather than vice versa; and seek to understand a very important thought.
The word temptation here is can yet be translated trial. The Greek word would be, "Peirasmos," which literally means a putting to proof, an experiment, a trial with beneficial purpose and effect.
Many times, as I have read through James in years past, I misunderstood this. I assumed that temptations were like, the scene from Snow White, where the witch offers her a beautiful red apple; and unable to resist she bites it and dies. Completely caught off and unaware Snow White had no chance against the lovely red apple. We can have that mindset. Yet, here we are to understand that temptation, or trials are to be endured...and expected. The crown of life being spoken of here, would be best understand as the reward at the end of an athletic competition. He that endureth, receives the crown of life. He that trains well, prepares, expects and then walks through the trial, leaning on not their own strength but the Lord's- will be able to come through and receive the prize.
Reverend McCleoud sums it up best in an exert from his sermon on James 1:12:
"Some trials are lustful and fleshy (temptations to rebel against God's Word) and some test our faith (temptations to deny Christ or recant), but they are both trials nevertheless! This is why it is pronounced a blessing when we can stand! It brings honor to our Lord when we love Him who was at all points tempted enough to resist sin until the shedding of blood. Hebrews 4:15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin."
Jesus himself begins his ministry in being put to temptation. Read Matthew 4:1-11. And notice how Christ responds. Satan manipulates the Word; Christ answers back in the authority of the Word.
Are we spending enough time with our Lord and in His Word that we can recognize false teaching? Manipulated word plays on the word of God- that seem especially likely to sneak in during times of trials and temptations? Where it would be easy, as we have seen since played out in the garden Satan whisper..."did God really say?" Sister can you answer back, and then stand firm on the truth of " IT IS WRITTEN..."
I encourage you- to dust off your hearts and minds today and remember that we are not on a stroll to the pearly gates but that we are in a battle that rages on. Are you armed? Or are you ill prepared where every red apple offered will become irresistible?
Going back to James 1:2-4 we must consider it a joy when we face trials of various kinds. We are being given an opportunity to grow and draw closer to the Lord. I am including today one of our family's favorite songs we stumbled upon. Flee from sin- it is a reminder that although not easy- with Christ all things are possible.
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