An important practice for lion tamers is to train big cats without relying solely on food. Overusing treats can create a dangerous expectation, as the lion may anticipate food at all times. Eliminating such temptation for the lion reduces the possibility of serious consequences, such as the lion tamer getting himself killed! This illustration highlights a valuable spiritual lesson for Christians. If we remove temptation in our own lives, it can help us avoid the consequences that often follow.
Temptation is a fundamental problem all human beings face. No one is exempt. James explains that “one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.” (Jas. 1:14-15) Thus, temptation is based on our own appetencies and emotions, especially toward that which is wrong or unwise. While temptation may differ for every individual, the consequence for giving in to it is the same, it “brings forth death.” This is a reference to spiritual death, or eternal condemnation (cf. John 5:29; Rev. 20:14-15).
In the same passage, James states, “Blessed is the man who endures temptation.” From the context of the letter, we know that he is writing to Christians, that is, those who have been saved (cf. Jas. 1:1-3, 2:1). Two important principles are found here: (a) those who have been saved can still be tempted to sin, and (b) it is possible to overcome temptation. Therefore, one is capable of resisting temptation or choosing not to give in to it. How does one overcome or endure it? Here are a few suggestions, to help you in your own spiritual walk:
First, pray! James explains that temptation does not originate with God (Jas. 1:13). It is Satan who attacks us with such enticement (cf. Luke 4:1-13). It is for this reason that Jesus taught His disciples, in the Model Prayer, to ask, “And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one.” (Matt. 6:13) Our first line of defense to endure temptation should be prayer.
Second, determine to resist and overcome. Temptation involves choice. Deciding how you will respond to temptation before it arrives, is a strong first defense. James writes, “Therefore, submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”(Jas. 4:7) Some Christians fail to overcome temptation simply because they never try to resist the tempter. Ask yourself, “How strongly do I desire to overcome Satan?” The Apostle Peter encouraged us to, “be even more diligent to make your calling and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble,” (2 Pet. 1:10). Overcoming temptation begins with personal conviction.
Thirdly, fill your heart with God’s word. If your mind (figuratively, your “heart”) is filled with Scripture, then you will know exactly what is right or wrong in the sight of God. Such knowledge will better prepare you for the devil’s attacks. The psalmist wrote, “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Ps. 119:11). Christians are also instructed, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Col. 3:16). If we will follow these instructions, we will be better prepared to overcome temptation.
Fourth, imitate the example of Jesus. Learn from Jesus’ response when He Himself was tempted by Satan in the wilderness. Each time the tempter attacked, He relied on God’s word to protect Himself, stating, “It is written.” Like Jesus, we must also use the “shield of faith” and “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph. 6:17), when we do battle with the tempter. When temptation arrives, search your memory for Scripture. Cite it aloud. Lean on truth! Having the proper weapons for the attack will ensure the victory.
Fifth, find the escape route. Paul writes that, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. Therefore, my beloved, flee …” (1 Cor. 10:13-14). Sometimes the escape route is found in the planning, such as, not putting yourself in a situation to be tempted. Just as an alcoholic or drug addict must remove themselves from that dangerous environment if they don’t want to be tempted, so should the Christian. At other times, that escape route may simply come down to self-control, which is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23).
The bottom line is, you CAN overcome temptation. However, resisting the devil does not happen by accident. You must gain knowledge and be well prepared. James says that the one who endures is “blessed.” Why? It is because “for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life.” Therefore, instead of reaping the consequences of temptation by giving in to it, let us overcome it, which brings reward – eternal life