Source of Temptation (1:13-14a)
* Read James 1:12-15. What does James say about the source of temptation?

• The source of temptation is not God ! (1:13)

• Rather, we are tempted by our own _______________ ________________ (1:14a)

Sequence in Temptation (1:14b-15)

1. D____________________

• The Greek word (See PDF version), translated "evil desire" in verse 14, is generally neutral.

In other words, it can mean either good desire or bad desire, depending on the context. Here, "evil desire" is the appropriate translation.

1. D__________________

2. D_____________________

3. D_____________________

Desire Deception > Disobedience (Sin) > Death

Solution to Temptation (1:16-18)

* God's G________________

• Read James 1:16-18. God is not the source of temptation. Rather, God is the source of "every good and perfect gift" (v. 17a).

• God is "the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows" (v. 17b). God does not change like the heavenly bodies He created. He is always good.

* God's G________________

• Verse 18 is in direct contrast to verse 15. Sin gives birth to death (v. 15). God gives birth to life (v. 18).

Advice for the Tempted (Reflection/Application)
† Accept Responsibility.
oAccept responsibility for your own sins (wrong attitudes and actions). Do not blame other people, circumstances, or fate. Certainly do not blame God.

† Change your Perspective and Heart (by God's grace).

• Change your perspective from the "fish perspective" to God's perspective. God has given us His word and His Spirit to instruct us.

• Change your "diet." Develop an appetite for God, not "worms." By realizing God's goodness and grace (see below), we become more attracted to God than "fish bait."

† Realize God's Goodness and Grace.

• Reflect on God's goodness, especially the gift of salvation and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
• Realize God's grace. The Christian is a new creature, no longer a slave to sin. God gives us the resources to handle temptation. His Spirit empowers us to say "no".

"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it" (1 Corinthians 10:13).