The Joy of Temptations

James 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

The average believer might never consider the word joy as an appropriate term to associate with temptations. The reason for this perplexity has to do with the fact that far too many believers fail to experience the God-intended victory when tempted. Temptations put a man’s faith on trial. When his faith stands the test, he learns patience. Therefore, he sees temptation as a means by which he can grow in the Lord and experience added virtues such as patience. It is not that he finds joy within the temptation itself, but that God can and will use that temptation to make him “perfect and entire, wanting nothing” (James 1:4). Believers who fight through and obtain victory find joy in knowing that their faith pleases God (Hebrews 11:6).

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

(For children):When we think of Romans 8:28, we can have joy in hard times. The Lord found joy in His temptations (Hebrews 12:2). Paul had many temptations (2 Corinthians 11:23b-28). Consider his attitude (Acts 20:24; 2 Timothy 4:7).

(For everyone):Have you ever found joy in the midst of temptations? What moved you to this joy? How has God used your temptations to draw you closer to Himself?

(For everyone):How is the joy of temptation (James 1:2) different from the “pleasures of sin” (Hebrews 11:25)? Which one is enduring and righteous? Which one is most often sought by men?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

Ask God to help you rejoice in the victories over temptation.

Thank the Lord for helping you during difficult times.

SONG

Yield Not To Temptation

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