I have always thought that God test me. So, when trials come my way I assumed it was the Lord. I realize today that 1st I am blessed due to my trials and because I went through them I have received the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him (James 1:12). 2nd God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone. So, when I am tempted to do something that is not of God, it is Satan who is doing the tempting. This is something that maybe I read before, but never understood until today. I do know that "every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows" (1:19). Now with this knowledge, I can take on the evil one and prevail. He is nothing but a speck and can be crushed easily.
One area that I have temptation is my tongue. James warns us that the tongue is like fire from hell and is the most evil part of our body. I believe it, because to control it is so hard. I do not want to just read God's word, but Do what its says (1:22). In chapter 3, he reminds us that being peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness. I do not have because I have not asked or asked with the wrong motives. I ask for a peaceful mouth and tongue. I want to bring peace to every situation, not for me but for the Glory of the Lord. Reminding myself: "Above all, my brothers, do not swear-not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your "Yes" be yes, and your "No," no (5:12).
Lord you have allowed me the wisdom to know You from the evil one and I thank you. My trials earn prizes, which brings me closer to you. I do pray that you will cleanse my tongue and help me to only speak your words, not my own. I want to lift people up and point them to you. Lord, I would love to be a peacemaker and harvest righteousness. I pray these things for your will and Glory. In the name of Jesus' Amen.
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