From Temptation to Desire to Sin

In our fractured, isolated culture, there’s still one experience common to everyone: the temptation to do wrong. No one is immune from it.

But where does temptation come from? The default answer for many people is the devil. And there’s truth in that. But he’s not the only source. As James points out, temptation comes from us, too. We play a key role in our own temptation. Where there’s no desire on our part, there’s no temptation.

You see, temptation is a process. It’s not a sin to be tempted; it’s an invitation to sin. In other words, it’s not the bait, it’s the bite. If you don’t take the bait when you’re tempted, you haven’t sinned. Having a bad thought come to your mind doesn’t mean you’re evil; it just means you’re being tempted by evil. Just like everyone else.

The question is, how interested are you in the temptation? How does it align with your desires? Do you have the urge to sample it?

At a farmers’ market, a man offered me a free sample of soup. My first response was to say no. Soup to me is like salad—it’s what I eat to warm up for real food. But the man persisted. So I took a little sip from his tiny little cup. Next thing I know, I’m carrying home a bag of frozen soup that I purchased. And it started with a free sample.

The devil uses a similar strategy. He says, “I know you would never do this because you’re such a godly person, but just take this thought for a spin. Or just take a little nibble. It’ll be fun. You don’t have to act on it.” That’s how temptation works. It starts in your mind. And then, as James says, “our own desires . . . entice us and drag us away.”

“And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.” Sometimes when you act on an evil thought, you get a momentary pleasure. Almost immediately, however, if your conscience is working, guilt kicks in. You feel regret, remorse, and a spiritual deadness because you’re separated from God.

Your first reaction may be to blame the devil or someone who led you astray. But you’re the one who’s responsible for your actions. Once you accept that truth, you can claim the promise of 1 John 1:9: “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness” (NLT).

And don’t lose sight of one other truth from God’s Word: “God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12 NLT).

They will also set a shining example for their family. Seeing you patiently endure testing and temptation may inspire your family members to patiently endure their own testing and temptation.

God always provides a way out for us when we’re tempted. He stands ready to help us—and then to reward us when we resist. How amazing is that?

Reflection Question: How can you involve God immediately the next time you feel tempted?

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