Where Sin is Born

Are there certain sins you regularly go back to? Do you feel like wrong desires just seem to get the better of you? Let's take a look at what the Bible says is really going on…  Keep Reading...

Scripture
James 1:13-15 - When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.

How does our evil desire become sin? Our own evil desires entice us, tantalize us, tempt us. But, sin hasn't happened yet. It is when we choose to act on our evil desires that sin is born. In other words, our evil desires come together with our thought life (our choosing capacity), and sin is conceived. The sin gets born, and when it is full grown, it leads to death.

We never "trip up" or "fall into sin." Rebellion against God is always an intentional, thoughtful action. The moment of desire to thoughtful action may be a split second. But, it is always something we choose. We can never blame God, saying that God tempted us. Our sin is not God's responsibility.

This truth of God's Word brings such freedom. For if sin was like a chronic disease, we would have no hope. If we were forced to sin through peer pressure or demonic harassment, could we ever break free? No, the truth that we always choose sin means that we can always choose NOT to sin.

Our minds can be places that create life, not death. This is entirely possible. But, first, we must believe that our choices matter. The battleground is the mind. Life or death is born here.

Question
How often do you blame people or circumstances for your sin? Can you recognize the moment of choosing sin in your mind?

Application
Ask the Holy Spirit to heighten your sensitivity to the moment of choice… when you have the power to act on the impulse of an evil desire or turn to God. Ask this of the Holy Spirit throughout your day.