Knowing and Avoiding the Cycle of Sin

James 1:13-15 "13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death."

Throughout this chapter we are given some very practical methods, systems or cycles that we should follow or avoid to live the life God wants for us.

Here we are give the Cycle of Sin. We see why we sin and how that sin develops and grows in our lives. In knowing this we can ask God to help us avoid or stop the cycle before it cause death.

1. First comes temptation that spring from our own evil desires.
2. When this evil desire is left unchecked and dwelt on it leads to sin, or intentional choices and actions that are contrary to living the way God desires.
3. When we continue to sin, it grows consuming our lives. This happens one part at a time and will cause death in each part of our lives. Our dreams and desires, our friendships, entertainment, work, ministry ... every part of life becomes sick and dies.
4. When each part slowly dies it eventually causes us to died from the inside out and leads to eternal death.

May God grant all of us the vigilance to see how we are truly living and guard against this in our daily lives.