James 1:12-15 — Trials and Temptations

READ THIS: James 1:12-15

12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
 
13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
 
WHAT’S THIS MEAN, ANYWAY?

What are the two biggest differences between a trial and a temptation? Where they come from and what they lead to! Trials (if you remember our devo on verses 1-4) come from God, and they lead us to grow in perseverance and give us life forever with Jesus. Temptations come from the world/the enemy (NEVER from God), and they lead to only one thing: death... But don't worry, that's not the end of the story. If we ask Jesus to forgive our sins, they die with Jesus on the cross, and they no longer live in us!


THINK ABOUT IT:

1. How can you tell the differences between trials and temptations in your own life? Have you ever asked God to help show you the difference?

2. Is there a sin that's growing inside of you that you haven't asked Jesus to forgive?

 
TRY THIS:

Watch this video on why God tests us with things like trials, and let us know what you think about it!



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