Trials And Temptations

Through the end of September, I am choosing to focus on the Book of James, as I love the practical, down-to-earth, don’t hold any punches approach of Jesus’ half-brother.

In James 1:2-3, he begins by writing:

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

- James 1:2-3

Later, in verse 13, James also reminds us that in addition to trials, we will be tempted - but to make sure we don’t blame God for our temptations, for God does not tempt anyone.

The Bible makes it clear that trials and temptations are unavoidable. In fact, the Greek root word, peirasmos, (pi-ras-mos’) is the same root word for both trials and temptations. The difference is that trials come from the outside (external trouble) and temptations come from the inside (inner morals). The truth is, we can count on both existing in our lives.

The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 3:3 that we should not become unsettled because of trials, for we know quite well that we are destined for them. Jesus Himself said to us in John 16:33, “In this world, you will have trouble.”

In the same way, in 1 Corinthians 10:13, Paul reminds us that “No temptation has seized us except what is common to man.” We are guaranteed, as human beings, to face temptation.

In my entire life, I have never met a person who likes trials, nor anyone who relishes temptation. Yet, James tells us that we are to consider it pure joy when we face trials. Has he completely lost it? I mean, come on, we are to walk through our trials and temptations with joy?! And James is not the only one to tell us this. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16 and 18, one of my favorite passages, Paul exhorts us to “rejoice always...and to give thanks in all circumstances.”

Joy is not to be confused with happiness, for neither Paul nor James is telling us to be happy about trials and temptations, but both are reminding us that our joy and gratitude are not based on our circumstances, but on our confidence in the One who protects us, carries us through our trials, and provides a way out when we are tempted.

In John 16:33, Jesus began by saying, “In this world you will have trouble,” but He concludes the verse by proclaiming, “BUT TAKE HEART, FOR I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD.”

In 1 Corinthians 10:13, Paul does begin by telling us that we will be tempted, but he concludes by writing, “...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 endure it.”

We can trust God to get us through whatever troubles the world throws at us and whatever temptations come from within us. And when we come to that realization, we can proclaim, as James commands us, “Consider it pure joy when you face trials of many kinds,” for we will know, according to verse 17 that, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of Heavenly Lights.”

Our God is good… all the time! All the time… our God is good.

Pastor Ken

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