15 February 2022
Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. No one, when tempted, should say, ‘I am being tempted by God’; for God cannot be tempted by evil and he himself tempts no one.
From James 1:12-18, NRSV
In today’s reading, James deals with the common human experience of temptation and assures his readers that anyone who can endure temptation will be “blessed”. James also acknowledges the human instinct to blame others – in this case God – for the failure to resist temptation. James makes it clear that temptation does not come from God who is incapable of being tempted, but that we must take personal responsibility for our actions. James speaks of the reward of the “crown of life” that will come to those who are tested by temptation but who endure. This crown is considered to be the promise of eternal life.
- Why do you suppose James wanted his readers to know that they would be “blessed” for withstanding temptation?
- Does God allow us to be tempted – if so, why?
Pray for the grace to recognise and withstand those thoughts, deeds or words that diminish your faith.
