Temptation never comes from God, but it has a lot to do with God. Where does temptation come from, and how do we overcome it with prayer?

Notes And Next Steps

James 1:13-18  + Part 7 of the series “Dear God..."

When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. (James 1:13,14)

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial. (James 1:12)

The formula for temptation is desire plus stimulus equals temptation.

Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. (James 1:15)

Don’t be deceived … Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:16,17)

God is faithful.

He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. (James 1:18)

For Discussion

1. Desire plus stimulus equals temptation. How does the devil dial up the intensity of desire or stimulus by using the following: 1) self-pity, 2) memories of past temptations that provided sinful pleasure, and 3) peer pressure. 

2. Desire plus stimulus equals temptation. Identify this strategy in the scene of Adam and Eve’s first sin. See Genesis 3:1-6

3. Your Christian friend is an addict and comes to you for advice. They’re burdened, but can’t stop falling into temptation. “Why is God allowing this to happen?” they ask. 

4. Make a list of some prayers that can help us during temptation. Apply today’s sermon message based on James 1:13-18.