Trials, Temptations & Character Development

Trials, Temptations & Character Development
How do you handle trials and temptations? Is there a difference between the two? And, where is God in all this?

The Scriptures below clearly show the difference between trials and temptations.

God allows trials in our lives and God can always use trials to grow us through developing endurance and character. On the other hand, God does not tempt us. Temptation comes from within us - within our sinful desires.

The message is clear. If you are facing a trial, welcome the opportunity for character development. If you are facing temptation, don't blame God, ask for power and resist it at all costs - the price is always too high if you give in!

Faith and Endurance
2) Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3) For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4) So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

12) God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterwards, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

13) And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. 14) Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. 15) These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death (separation from God).
James 1:2-4, 12-15 (New Living Translation)