Temptations to sin are sure to come. (Luke 17:1a)

Today, we dive into a topic that I personally struggled with for years: Is temptation itself a sin? 

As we see in the scripture above from Luke, Jesus said "Temptations to sin are sure to come." These words guide us to distinguish between temptation and sin – the former being an encounter we all face, while the latter arises from the choices we make in response. 

So, in short, no, temptation is not sin.

Consider this perspective: Temptation is akin to a neutral force, a suggestion presented to us. Think of money, an essential tool that can be utilized for both constructive and harmful purposes. The desire for financial stability isn't inherently sinful, yet when it morphs into greed, which is against God's word, temptation beckons at the threshold of choice.

Another example is physical (bodily) pleasure. The enjoyment of physical pleasure isn't inherently wrong. After all, God, Himself, gave us the sense of touch. Rather, it's the imbalance or misuse of physical pleasure that can lead us astray. 

Remember: the object of your temptation isn't innately sinful. Rather, it's the misdirection or distortion of that object that can lead cause you to miss the mark (aka sin).

Please join me tomorrow, as we look at the source of temptation.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, grant me the discernment to recognize temptation for what it is – an invitation to choose. Help me distinguish between neutral desires and the path that leads to sin and death. Strengthen my resolve to make choices that honor you, others, and myself. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

1. Think of a desire you possess, one that exists in a neutral space. How can you ensure it remains a constructive force in your life?

2. How might embracing the distinction between temptation and sin impact your decision-making process moving forward?

3. Consider a time when you recognized the fine line between temptation and sin in your life. What steps did you take to avoid crossing that line, and what insights did you gain from that experience?

Hymn: Yield not to Temptation

Watch Sunday's Message: Yield Not to Temptation

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