I’ve always struggled with anger. I don’t know why, but for some reason, my go to emotion when things don’t go my way is to get angry. For whatever reason, anger is where I struggle. On the other hand, I have no desire to steal or sin sexually. Isn’t it funny though how each person is different when it comes to their struggle with sin?
Maybe you’re like me, and anger is your hang up. But it could be that there’s another area where you struggle with sin. Here’s what James 1:14 says about sin.
but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. – James 1:14 (NIV)
Isn’t it interesting how James tells us that each person is tempted. No one is immune to it, and that should be somewhat encouraging. When we’re tempted, it doesn’t mean that there is anything wrong with us. It just proves that we are human, living in a fallen world.
And when it comes to temptation, being tempted isn’t wrong. What’s wrong is when those desires entice you and you act on those desires.
As Christ followers we should be trying to be more like Him. And how did Jesus combat temptation? When He was tempted by the devil in the wilderness, He quoted scriptures back to the devil. So if there’s an area that you struggle with temptation, do what Jesus did. Find out what the Bible has to say about that area, and begin to speak God’s word over your life. Know that His word has power. It can help you overcome the temptation that you face.
