A weekday morning devotional series written by Aaron Marcarelli and hosted by Chad McBeam
“Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. No one is to say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust.”
James 1:12-14 NASB2020
This perseverance that James speaks of gives us hope in Christ. As we persevere, we develop resilience and that gives us faith and hope in the power of the Holy Spirit. God does not tempt us, only the evil one is the great tempter. James uses the words of Jesus from when Jesus was being tempted by Satan before He began His ministry. It is recorded in Matthew: “and he *said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down; for it is written: ‘He will give His angels orders concerning You’; and ‘On their hands they will lift You up, So that You do not strike Your foot against a stone.’ ” Jesus said to him, “On the other hand, it is written: ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’ ” Again, the devil *took Him along to a very high mountain and *showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory; and he said to Him, “All these things I will give You, if You fall down and worship me.” Then Jesus *said to him, “Go away, Satan! For it is written: ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.’ ” Then the devil *left Him; and behold, angels came and began to serve Him.”
Matthew 4:6-11 NASB2020
Paul also speaks to overcoming temptation and difficulties. In Romans 5: 3-5 Paul explains; “And not only this, but we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”
Romans 5:3-5 NASB2020
Our Hope is in God and His perfect saving Grace. It is through His Love that we are saved. It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit and the Armor He gives us that we have the resilience to triumph over temptation and overcome the missiles Satan sends our way.
Therefore, let us put our Hope and Trust in the power of the Creator of the universe so that we may have the perseverance and resilience to win the race for His glory and honor.
Lord we praise and honor your Holy Name! Help us to put on the armor you have given us. Lord help us to be resilient and fight to persevere for Your Glory each and every day! In Jesus name Amen.
Shalom, Shalom blessings! Press in and Press on!