Don’t let anyone under pressure to give into evil say, “God is trying to trip me up.” God is impervious to evil, and puts evil in no one’s way. The temptation to give into evil comes from us and only us. We have no one to blame but the leering, seducing flare up of our own lust. (James 1:13-14 TM)
Yesterday I talked about the pressures of life that challenge us, the spiritual refining process that we all go through. It is true that these times are real, and that as James said we should not try to get out of the process until it is completed so that we can be mature and well-developed. Yet, James also warns us of not confusing the difficult times of the refining process with the temptation of our own hearts. This is what I wanted to be sure to be clear about. No confusion.
God will never “refine” you through leading you into sin. Just as a parent will not lead their child to disobey them to teach them or bring them into maturity. Peter says “If you’re abused because of Christ, count yourself fortunate…If they’re on you because you broke the law or disturbed the peace, that’s a different matter. ” (1Peter 4:14TM)
Be sure, in seeking why you are walking through things, whether it is God or because of your choices. First evaluate the reason, then you can decide how to walk it out. The good news is, if it is because of your choices you can quickly change your course.
So in your circumstances you must ask the question, is this a trial or a temptation? A trial (or challenge) will bring maturity, patience, and breakthrough in your life. A temptation will cause you to fall into sin, and take you away from the path God wants you on.
Either way, know that God is with you and wants to help you, to make your life a better one. He loves us and only wants the best for us. James says, “Are you hurting? Pray. Are you sick? Call the church leaders together to pray and anoint you with oil in the name of the Master. Believing prayer will heal you, and Jesus will put you on your feet. And if you’ve sinned – you’ll be forgiven inside and out.” (James 5:13-15 TM emphasis added)