All too often Gen Z is written off as a confused and non-religious generation that has turned their back on God.
This could not be further from the truth.
Gen Z has questions, spiritual questions, and if they are not being raised up in Christ and discipled by the church, then they will look for the answers elsewhere.
There are those who have been raised up on a firm foundation in Christ however, such as the son of Faith Church Ruston Pastors Stan and Mary Pody, Kaden.
Kaden Pody has created a massive online presence by standing firmly on the Word of God and helping to guide others on their faith walk.
One of the biggest questions he addresses on his YouTube channel, with over 4.68 million subscribers, is a question many do not have the answer to: is temptation a sin?
The question of whether temptation is a sin has been a matter of debate. It is crucial to consult the Word of God for answers rather than relying on personal opinions.
Temptation is a universal experience; it affects people of all ages and walks of life. Even the great men and women of God mentioned in the Bible faced temptation. Jesus Himself was tempted (Matt. 4:1), as were Elijah and Moses. The crucial distinction lies in how individuals respond to temptation.
Some, like King David when he succumbed to the temptation of sexual immorality with Bathsheba, gave in to the allure (2 Sam. 11:2-4). However, there were those like Joseph, who, when approached by Potiphar’s wife, chose to reject the temptation and flee from it (Gen. 39:7-12).
The decision to resist or yield to temptation rests with each person. It is essential to understand that temptation does not originate from God, contrary to what some may believe. James 1:13 states, “Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am tempted by God’; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.”
So why does God allow temptation to come our way?
Consider this analogy: In an educational setting, teachers administer tests and quizzes to evaluate students’ knowledge and ensure their progress. Similarly, God allows tests, including temptation, to gauge our spiritual growth and faithfulness to His Word.
Just as students diligently study their textbooks to excel in exams, believers must immerse themselves in the Scriptures, their spiritual workbook. By knowing and applying God’s Word, we gain the ability to overcome temptations. The Bible assures us that trials will come, but we should not succumb to them, for we have the Overcomer, Jesus Christ, residing within us (1 Cor. 10:13, 1 John 4:4).
It is crucial to recognize that the devil is the author of temptation. Satan is cunning and aware of our weaknesses. He knows precisely which areas to exploit to lead us into sin. Identifying our vulnerabilities is essential, and we must establish safeguards and boundaries to protect ourselves from falling prey to temptation.
Imagine putting yourself in the devil’s shoes: How would you entice yourself to sin? Reflect on potential scenarios, times, places or influences that could lead you astray. Then establish parameters to safeguard those areas. By doing so, you create an environment that discourages the devil from gaining a foothold.
Believers need to realize that they possess the power to overcome every temptation. No temptation is insurmountable. The Bible assures us that God provides a way out (1 Cor. 10:13). Just as students progress from one grade to the next through diligent study, we too can navigate life’s challenges by studying and applying God’s Word.
The Bible encourages us to hide God’s Word in our hearts to resist sin (Ps. 119:11). Memorizing Scripture equips us with a powerful weapon against the devil’s schemes. Whether the temptation is sexual immorality, theft, lying or any other sinful inclination, the Bible provides guidance and principles while the Holy Spirit empowers Spirit-filled believers to overcome them. {eoa}
James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.
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