TEMPTATION
Today's reading: James 1-3

"Temptation comes from the lure of our own evil desires." James 1:14 NLT

Before you go blaming someone for your temptations, consider James's statement.

It's not the advertising companies.

It isn't social media.

The blame doesn't fall on those who have done you wrong, pushed you to your limits or seemingly set a trap for your best intentions.

When we are tempted to sin...

When we are tempted to cave on what we know the Lord has asked of us...

When we lean hard into what doesn't please God...

It's something in us. 

Something deep down within us.

It's a desire we feel God isn't providing for. It's a hurt we believe God doesn't recognize. It's a want that we ache for more than we hunger after the Lord. It's a time frame we have set for the Creator of the world to follow.It's a goal we have internalized that may not have been God-driven. It's a way to make us feel like we are in control of this topsy-turvy world.

So when you are tempted, stop and consider what in you is being lured away from God's best.