I remember hearing a sermon by a well respected teacher of mine as it related to temptation. He said something along the lines of temptation does not come from outside of us, but from inside of us. We can’t be tempted by something that we don’t care about. If you can remember a few days ago, James 1:8 introduced us to the concept of being double-minded. In order to be double-minded, or doubt filled, we have harbor some skepticism. That’s why we have to ask God for help. There is a direct outcome to resisting successfully. James goes on to teach that there is a “crown of life” for the believer who makes it through.
There are several crowns referred to in the NT which faithful believers will receive from God: (1) “the crown of righteousness” (cf. 2 Tim. 4:8); (2) “the crown of life” (cf. Rev. 2:10; 3:11); (3) “the crown of glory” (cf. 1 Pet. 5:4); and (4) “an imperishable crown” (cf. 1 Cor. 9:25).1
James would have the Jewish believers focus on the crown of life that is not limited to merely winning a race on earth. This crown is for those who win in an eternal prize. For every trial that you and I are able to overcome, a prize is prepared by the God who loves us. James has issued the call to persevere through trials, knowing that a person will be made complete through them, noting that they will receive the crown of life. This crown of life is the motivation of obedience for every believer, not because they desire to have a crown, but because they desire to be in the presence of the true and holy God. Therefore, maintain His ways as outlined in His word, with a fullness of heart. May God know we love Him by our actions of obedience.2
Prayer focus
- What are the things in you that constantly tempt you?
- During this fasting time, pray for God to remove those things from your heart.
- Celebrate today for every moment you could have gone wrong but didn’t.
1 Utley, R. J. D. (2000). Jesus’ Half-Brothers Speak: James and Jude (Vol. Volume 11, p. 18). Marshall, TX: Bible Lessons International.