Temptation and Sin

It is important to understand the difference between temptation and sin. James spoke to this distinction in James 1:14, 15.

It is not a sin to be tempted. When someone cuts you off in traffic, and the impulse rises to shake your fist and shout something inappropriate, that is not sin. That is temptation. When you see an attractive person and something within you suggests you take a lingering look, that is temptation and not sin.

You may wish to ask yourself why certain temptations seem to be so persistent, but temptation and sin are two different things.

Having been tempted does not mean you have fallen into sin. But it is important to tread carefully in this area. If you fail to flee that temptation, you may well fall prey to it. There is a reason Jesus taught us to pray, “Lead us not into temptation” (Matthew 6:13, KJV). Yielding to temptation leads directly to sin and ultimately brings death. But living a life in connection with Jesus will bring you to the place where temptation will not present any kind of moral predicament.

As you continue to grow your relationship with Jesus, you will mature in your experience to the extent that you won’t respond to temptation.

When Jesus has your will and is allowed to blend it with His own will, His purposes can be carried out in your life. As you grow in the grace of God, keep in mind that there is a significant difference between temptation and sin. Even Jesus “was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15).

Peter wrote that “when He was reviled, [He] did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously” (1 Peter 2:23). Thank God that He is able to keep you in the hour of temptation. You are not doomed to be trapped in sin without escape.