Joy in Temptation

By John Weaver

November 1, 2021

“COUNT IT ALL JOY WHEN YOU FALL INTO DIVERS TEMPTATIONS” (James 1:2).

“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life  which the Lord has promised to them that love him” (James 1:12).

These are powerful verses that may shake our thinking a bit. Don't we all admire the person who goes through life seeming like they have no trials or temptations? They always seem to make the right choices and love the Lord and are obedient in all things.

There may be such people, but very few. We all have our trials - our “thorns in the flesh." Who wants trials? Or who wants to go through temptations? None of us do, really.

“For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and (at times) scourgeth (to afflict greatly) every son whom he receiveth”

(Hebrews 12:6).

A growing Christian will realize that God uses trials and temptations to bring us to the end of our strength and abilities. He wants us to rely on Him alone. Even Christ learned obedience. How? By the things that He suffered.

A really good attitude to have is this: When you are facing a trial, hardship, or temptation, ask God, “Lord, what do You want to teach me with this thing?” Then let God show you.

“Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby” (He-brews 12:11).

That is the key. Let these things do a good work in us. Let God break us in order to use us.

“But if ye be without chastise-ment, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons” (Hebrews 12:8).

Those are strong words from God.

So whatever the trial, the temptation, or the hardship that you are facing, tell God, “I don't really like this, but I know it is for my good, and anything from You will simply help me in the long run. And, ‘Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him’ (Job 13:15a). Amen!”

 

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