[210 words]
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8). This verse from James is very closely related to what he said in 1:12, “Blessed is the man who endures temptation.” Temptations come against us fast and hard. And the devil has an army of assistants who pressure us to yield. We need help to resist. Where better to get help than from God himself? David expressed this better than I can: “Who will help me against evil doers? Who will stand up for me against the workers of iniquity? Unless the Lord had been my help, my soul would have settled in silence. If I say, ‘My foot slips,’ your mercy, O Lord, will hold me up” (Psalm 94:16-18). Notice, when we “resist the devil” (James 4:7) our foot may begin to slip. Even then if we call upon the Lord his mercy will hold us up. Again, David tells us, “I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, so shall I be saved from my enemies” (Psalm 18:3). In time of temptation draw away from the crowd that entices you (resist the devil). Draw near unto God. He will hold you up and help you endure the temptation and you will have joy in the victory.
Alton Norman
Owingsville church of Christ
Owingsville, KY