If temptation continues to be an issue and a struggle for you, James 1:15 reveals to us that eventually there will be a conception, a birth, a period of growth and maturing, and then ultimately death. What does this mean in the context of this scripture?
…recognize temptation…avoid it at all costs…
In the natural, the process of conception requires a womb and a seed. This reference in James is no different. ‘Conception’ here is referring to when we, as believers, no longer resist the temptations that come against us. We give in and begin to entertain unclean thoughts that are contrary to the Word of God, which soon begin to take root in our mind. We have willingly allowed our mind to become a womb for the seeds of our evil desires. Given time, our corrupted thought life turns into evil intentions, and eventually our actions give birth to sin.
When James 1:15 says, “…and sin, when it is fully matured, brings forth death,” it is describing the point in our life when sin grows to become more than what we can handle. Eventually we no longer feel convicted by the Holy Spirit for our wrong doing, and soon sin no longer resembles sin to us anymore. Since we no longer feel we are living sinfully, we see no reason to ever repent, which will ultimately lead to our spiritual death. Learn to recognize temptation and choose to avoid it at all costs before it ever has a chance to become sin in your life or lead you down the path of spiritual death and separation from God.
Romans 12:2 tells us to renew our minds daily with the Word of God! Only through daily communion and genuine quality time with the Lord are we able to establish a sound defense over our minds against the bombardment of temptations from the enemy! Speak the Word out of your mouth and over your life each day! Ask the Holy Spirit to guard and guide you in your daily walk!
Fight the good fight of faith!
Jamie
