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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
So says James as he explains how temptation occurs and who is responsible. “…no one should say, ‘God is tempting me.’ For God cannot be tempted by evil, (though Jesus was “tested” by temptation – Mark 4:1-4; Hebrews 2:18 & 4:15) nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire , he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” James1:13 -15
Which is not to say God abandons us to our struggle. Paul reminding us that, “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man.” We are all tempted, by various things and to varying degrees. To be tempted is not sinful, giving into it is. The problem is that we so often place ourselves in situations we know we are vulnerable to; excited by being on the edge of the cliff, occasionally surprised by something or someone we didn’t expect or prepare for. Paul explaining further, “…God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
Satan can – and does – manipulate situations and circumstances to increase temptation or the likelihood that we will succumb to it. He is after all, characterized as a roaring lion; prowling about looking for someone to devour. But Peter describes the antidote to that danger. “Be self-controlled and alert... Resist him (by) standing firm in the faith,…” 1 Peter 5:8,9
Jesus warns us to, ‘Be on guard! Be alert!’ concerning life’s uncertainties. ( Mark 13:33) Paul echoing that admonition with, “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13 Assuring us then that “…the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 Therein lies the solution to many of our problems, accomplished by, “Set(ting) your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:2 Thereby, “…preparing your minds for action…” and developing self-control. 1 Peter 1:13
Paul then reminds us that, “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires, to be made new in the attitude of your minds, and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” Ephesians 4:22-24 (See also Romans 12:2) That new self focusing on, “…whatever is true,… noble, …right, …pure, …lovely, …admirable…” Philippians 4:8
Temptation is a luring or wooing away from core beliefs and correct behavior, an inward struggle as our thoughts give vent to a desire to do what we know we shouldn’t, becoming a craving – or hunger – to flesh out those thoughts in action; discrediting our witness and bringing into question our integrity in the eyes of others and more importantly God. As Jesus lamented, “The spirit is willing but the body is weak.” Matthew 26:41
Hypnosis could be an apt metaphor for temptation; it’s almost like falling under a spell – becoming susceptible to suggestion. Our response should mirror Jesus when he was tempted. ( Matthew 4:1-11) Each time Satan questioned Jesus purpose or cast doubt on His understanding of God’s will, Jesus countered with God’s word. Paul then expanded on this theme by exhorting us to, “…be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the Devil’s schemes.” That “armor” consisting of, “…the belt of truth …the breastplate of righteousness …our feet fitted with (the steadfastness and) readiness that comes from the gospel …In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Ephesians 6:10 & 18
The devil can’t make us do anything, he’s no match for God’s leading through the Holy Spirit, if we are genuinely committed to following Him. When we fail and petition God to “deliver us from evil,” we use a Greek word –rhyomai – from which the English word rush comes from. So we are, in effect, praying for God to rush to us, snatching us out of the clutches of the evil one.1
What it boils down to is: We have two voices competing for our hearts and minds – what you have to decide is, which one will you respond to?
1From Adam Hamilton’s book, The Lord’s Prayer
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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