Temptation Investigation: Creation

This post is post two of a multi-post series. It is best if you read the posts in order. To view the previous post click here.

Many people have a misconception of who sends temptation our way. Some get angry with God because they believe He is the one behind it but that is not true. Dictionary.com defines temptation as "the desire to have or do something that you know you should avoid". Surely that is just the world's definition right? Temptation can't be created by our own desires can it? Well, James 1:13-14 says, "When tempted, no one should say, 'God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed." As you can see, God is not behind the creation of our temptation situations; we are. Our own evil desires set the stage for temptation to be such a struggle to deal with. Because of this, Satan is able to drag us away and entice us.

Not only does this passage show us where our temptation situations come from, but it gives us an insight at God's power over temptation. The passage says that God cannot be tempted and He does not tempt anyone. Although God is not behind the temptation situations we go through, He is in control. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And 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." It's amazing to know that, although we as humans are not strong enough to overcome temptation situations, our God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone. Because of this, and because of His supreme power and control over everything, He will always provide a way out for us.

When you find yourself in the center of a temptation situation, remind yourself that God is in control and is there to help you stand up under it. Accept the fact that as a human you cannot overcome your temptation situations alone. Begin to allow God to take control and show you the way out. By doing so, you will find that temptation situations become easier to overcome. Gain confidence when you are going through temptation situations by reminding yourself that God will always be able to save you because of His awesome power and control over all.