Temptation

Purslane Attracting Bee

“Blessed is the man who perseveres⁵²⁷⁸ under trial, because when he has stood the test,

 he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

 When tempted,³⁹⁸⁵ no one should say, ‘God is tempting me.’

For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone;

but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed.

Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin;

and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.

Do not be deceived, my dear brothers”

James 1:12-16

5278 – hupŏmĕnŏ – to stay under (behind), i.e. remain; fig. to undergo, i.e. bear (trials) have fortitude, persevere: - abide, endure, (take) patient(-ly), suffer, tarry behind.

3985 – pĕirazō – to test (obj.), i.e. endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline: - assay, examine, go about, prove, temp (-er), try.

Only through Your power, Lord, can I not be dragged away.

I pray Your Spirit within me will give me strength to stay

On the path of righteousness, the straight and narrow way.

When desires draw me in like a flower draws a bee,

Help me, Lord, to turn around and from temptation flee;

For I long to receive a crown life, to lay as a gift before Thee.

Fading Flowers

Daylilies fading after summer bloom.

“The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position.

But the one who is rich should take pride²⁷⁴⁴ in his low position,

because he will pass away like a wild flower.

For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant;

its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed.

In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business.”

James 1:9-11

2744 – kauchaŏmai – to vaunt (in a good or a bad sense): - (make)boast, glory, joy, rejoice.

Father, keep me from taking pride in material gain or glory;

for all possessions will fade away, as will my earthly story.

Help me to remember that this life is a mist or a fading flower,

But I will someday dwell with You through your grace and power.

Keep my eyes on the pure joy of knowing Christ, my Lord.

Please help me focus on Your will and seek it in Your word.