Trial versus Temptation
In verses 2-11, James deals with the matter of trials- I would add external trials as illustrated by the example of the outward circumstances of poverty and wealth (verses 9-11). Verses 12-19 focus on internal struggles- temptations. Verses 12 speaks of trial, verse 13 of temptation. Both words come from the root word in Greek. What is the difference between trials and temptations?
A trial is a circumstance or situation in our lives in which we must choose how is we will act. If we choose wisely (and James tell us that if we lack wisdom we should ask from the GOD Who gives generously), then that circumstance remains a trial- something to rejoice over as it is a step in the direction toward maturity. If, on the other hand, we choose foolishly, the trial has become a temptation and can be a step in the direction of death.
As James sees it, the process begins with desire- not evil desire (NIV) or lust (KJV)- simply one’s “own desire” (ESV). When desire comes, one must choose- remain steadfast, persevere in obedience or choose to disobey. Go forward or go backward.
The question that inevitably comes up is, what is GOD’s responsibility in the matter? As he has spoken about GOD’s generosity, James now points to His holiness by pointing out two truths: God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone (NIV). His nature is holy and so much so (it is unmixed versus our double-mindedness), that He cannot be enticed to plot to harm us. There is nothing in His nature to which that or any other temptation could appeal. It is true that GOD does bring trials and tests in our pathway. One could even say that He never gives any gift without at the same time providing a test regarding the use of that gift. But GOD is not trying to trip us up because His holiness and goodness cannot allow that He should seek our hurt. When He tests us, it is so that we may pass the test and move toward maturity and the crown of life (verse 12). So, when we are faced (ambushed) by trials, we must choose. Let there be no question about it: GOD’s way is hard and demanding; the other way is easy.
One last thing: in verse 12, James wrote of the crown of life; in verse 15, of death. What does James mean by death? What does the Bible mean by death? Death indicates separation: spiritual death means separation from GOD; social death, separation from one another; psychological death, separation within oneself (a lack of integration); ecological death, separation from creation; physical death, separation of soul and body. Yet there is something else. There is continued existence, but in a changed state, an abnormal state. Thus, human beings are separated from GOD, yet He is still a part of their lives- but not as originally intended. Humans may be separated from one another, yet we have to live together and we do– but there are problems. So when desire results in death, it results in changes in our existence, abnormalities in our lives.
When trials come into our lives, we have a choice, the road of obedience, perseverance, maturity and life, or the road of disobedience, desire, sin, and death.
I do live by the church;
for I do live at my house,
and my house doth stand by the church.
Feste the Clown
Twelfth Night
Act III Scene 1