Test vs. Temptation
James 1:12–18; Psalm 94; Mark 8:14–21
While both “test” and “temptation” involve challenges or trials, they differ in their origin, purpose, and outcome: In the first reading, James distinguished testing from temptation. He says that temptation does not come from God; rather, a person is tempted when he is drawn away and trapped by his own evil desire. This desire conceives and gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully grown, gives birth to death.
Again, succumbing to temptation results in spiritual harm, guilt, and separation from God. It leads to disobedience, broken relationships, and spiritual regression. However, resisting temptation strengthens one’s faith and character, deepens reliance on God’s strength, and preserves holiness and purity.
On the other hand, tests serve to refine and build resilience, faith, and character. They provide opportunities for growth, learning, and development. Tests can help individuals discover their strengths and weaknesses and deepen their reliance on God. God tests his people. Happy is the man who remains faithful under such trials, because when he succeeds, he will be rewarded.
Therefore, tests come from God or circumstances, serve to strengthen faith and character, and lead to spiritual growth, while temptation arises from external sources, aims to lead individuals into sin, and leads to spiritual harm if succumbed to.
Precisely because of this, Jesus warned the disciples to guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and the yeast of Herod. We too must be on watch against hypocritical and dubious leaders; we must guard against their yeasts, spices, and temptations.
Let us pray.
Father, have mercy and save us. By the power of the Holy Spirit, help us to resist the temptations that come our way. Give us grace to do your will and enter into your promises. May we not be lured into the hands of wicked and dubious men. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
