Morning Meditation

Good Morning and Happy Monday!

but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. James 1:14 (NIV)
Temptation

“The devil made me do it”. Have you heard this phrase before? This was one of the most famous lines uttered by an imaginary character named Geraldine Jones, played by the African-American actor and comedian name Flip Wilson. This phrase became a national catchphrase during the 1970’s. Interestingly, some still use a version of that phrase to explain their actions. But I wonder if that explanation is valid for all occasions.
Clearly we see devilry working in the actions of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. (Genesis 3)
But there is no mention of the devil tempting Gehazi, the servant of Elisha when he decided to swindle Naaman the Aramean out of some coins and clothing. (2 Kings 5:20-22)
The devil was also not mentioned when Rachel decided to steal her father’s idols. (Genesis 31:32)
Could it possibly be that there are aspects of temptation and wrong doing that has more to do with our own internal propensities than the devil?
That is not such a strange question considering that we are all born with a fallen nature. (Romans 3:10 & 23)
Next time you face a temptation, it would be good to consider its source. And remember, God’s Holy Spirit has the power to overcome our own evil inclinations. (Galatians 5:16-23)
Be encouraged!