No More Defeat

In James chapter 1, we read two references to tests. KJV uses the word 'temptation' for both. But they are a world apart. Simpler translations like NLT make it very clear. In v.2 and 3, he refers to the trials of faith they were going through. It was definitely a reference to the persecution against the early church. He tells the believers that those trials are precious and that they can have victory through patience. Though the church lost thousands because of the persecution that lasted through the fourth century, she did maintain her patience and came out victorious.

But what is referred to in v. 13 to 15 is entirely different. I like the candid rendition in NLT: "And remember, no one who wants to do wrong should ever say, 'God is tempting me.'"

Remember that this was written to Jewish Christians scattered among the nations. Why we as Christians have to worry about temptations? Does any of us really want to do wrong? Or do we simply lose some battles?

Why do we lose the battles is the question. After going through the 'new creation' experience at salvation (2 Cor.5:17), after committing ourselves to 'walk in the newness of life' at baptism (Romans 6:4), after receiving the power to be 'victorious witnesses' by the infilling of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8), why we still have to worry about stumbling and defeat?

The simple answer to that is that we are still in our mortal bodies that we inherited at birth. This body came with the Adamic sin nature. As long as we are in this body, therefore there will be a dichotomy in the life of a Christian. This is what Paul cried out about in Romans 7.

A detailed study on this subject would warrant writings by holiness and puritan writers of America. Wesley has written extensively on this subject.

One does not have to live a defeated life. He or she can have victory if you do the following.
1. Accept certain realities like one can still be lured by evil desires, that there are two laws at work in a Christian, that despite the struggle one can have victory if he or she does not give in.
2. Treat every temptation as a test of your faith. Tests can come in different forms. Like Odysseus in Greek mythology, we may think that we are beyond temptation. But no one is! Just as his soldiers had to tie him to the mast to save him, we need intervention in such times to protect our christian walk. But from whom?
3. God has made provisions to help you. in Hebrews chapter 2, v. 18 and chapter 4, v.15, the Bible assures us that our savior Jesus Christ understands perfectly what we go through because he was living among us for 33 plus years. that is why Paul cried out: "Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord." (Rom. 7:25 NLT). he has promised us that he will never leave us or forsake us. That goes for the times when you are severely struggling in your faith also.
4. There is a way of escape. What I have learned from experience and from the Word of God is that Satan cannot defeat a Christian until he or she gives up. many times Satan will increase the fire seven times to force you to give up. But if you hold on to your convictions, you will be walking free in that fire a short time later! Learn this secret: Many times having victory is as simple as buying a little extra time. A simple 'not now' can lead you to victory a million times!
5. Put on the whole armour of God. Spiritual warfare is a reality! There is only one way to victory in that area. Get ready for the fight! Put on the armor God has provided for you in Ephesians 6:10,11,16. "Resist the devil and he will flee away."

Make up your mind. Proclaim to yourself: No More Defeat!