The Wolf Within

James 1:13-15

I. The Cause of Temptation

A. God does not tempt to evil – v. 13

B. The devil tempts – See I Thessalonians 3:5

C. Sinful people tempt – See Proverbs 1:10

D. The enticement comes from the lust within – v. 14

II. The Course of Temptation – When one yields to it – v. 14

A. The inception of sin – v. 15a

B. The control of sin – See John 8:34

C. The destructiveness of sin – v. 15b

III. The Conquering of Temptation – See I Corinthians 10:13

A. Realize your vulnerability

B. Receive Christ – II Corinthians 5:17; I John 5:4-5

C. Surrender to the control of the Holy Spirit – See Galatians 5:16; I John 4:4

D. Avail yourself of the provisions God has given to aid you:

1. The Word of God – See Psalm 119:11

2. Prayer – Matthew 26:41

3. The fellowship of God’s people – See Hebrews 10:25

4. The armor of God – See Ephesians 6:10-18