Introductory Thoughts
When a believer considers the Bible’s use of “temptation,” he most often associates its usage to something sinful. Though this may be the scripture’s most common usage of the word, context must always be the determining factor. God undeniably tempted Abraham, yet the temptation was not meant to bring about sin. The temptation served as a test of Abraham’s faith. Basically, temptation functions as a means to try one’s faith. James 1:2-3 clearly offers the connection as it incorporates the words “temptations” and “trying” interchangeably. The author, the purpose, and the circumstances surrounding temptations will vary, but the underlying premise remains constant. Each believer must learn how to discern the specifics when tempted.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Psalm 11:5 says, The Lord trieth the righteous. Job knew he was being tried as he had done nothing worthy of losing all his possessions, his health, and most of his family (Job 1:1; Job 23:10). As Job was tried, God revealed Jobs character to Satan. Satan hoped Job would sin, but he refused to do so (Job 1:11, 22; Job 2:5, 9-10).
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(For everyone): Why is it important for believers to study the various details of temptation? How could this study help believers find victory during any times of temptation?
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Have you ever been tempted? What was the source of the temptation? Were you able to get victory over the temptation, or did you fall into sin? What could you have done differently?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to teach you about scriptural temptation.
- Ask the Lord to give you wisdom when tempted.
Song
CLEANSE ME
