Devotion for Tuesday, September 6th, 2011

But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

James 1:14

So when are we tempted to do evil, and how does it happen?  According to this verse, temptation preys upon our natural desires.  The word “lust” here is speaking of our desires.  It is not inherently wrong to have desires.  But when desires go unrestricted, undisciplined, and unhindered they will most certainly be used to draw us toward sin.
The word for “drawn away” is a word that is used in other places to speak to wild game being drawn to a trap.  Just like a trap entices game with something good, that seemingly good thing will be really harmful.
Here is an example:   A person may have a desire for financial security.  If this drives them proper, Biblical stewardship, and a desire to honor God with your money and stuff then it is a God- honoring desire.  But this natural desire left unchecked may quickly turn into greed, theft, lack of generosity, or lack of trust in God.

Application:  So what is a person to do with their desires?  Ultimately, the best answer is to allow God to be the person who fulfills all of our desires.  This takes faith and trust in Him.
How do we do this?  The answer can be found in spiritual disciplines.  As we spend time with God in prayer and His Word, we will get to know Him better.  As we are obedient to do what He asks, He begins to align our desires with His will for us.  Today, when you are tempted, ask God to help you align your desires with His.