The Sin Process

• How does sin start?

• Can you give an example of a situation that would likely lead to temptation?

Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
James 1:15

The Greek word that is translated “desire” in this verse means a craving or longing for something that is forbidden. Think of Eve in the garden with the forbidden fruit. What seemed like such a small temptation turned into disaster. This verse from James tells us that sin is not an accident that happens by chance but a process that begins with temptation.

We will all be tempted. If we do not fight against that temptation, it will give birth to sin, and sin gives birth to death. Obviously, this doesn’t mean that everyone who sins will fall down dead immediately. While some sins do lead to physical death, more importantly, sin results in spiritual death.

And all of this starts with the smallest temptation. Recognizing the dangers of temptation can help us guard ourselves against it. If there is a particular person, place or situation that leads us to be tempted, we need to avoid it.

PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for giving us your Word, which teaches us how to avoid sin. Please help us to avoid temptation today and every day. Amen.