Does God Set Us Up to Fail?

I thought this Scripture to be a good follow up to our text on Sunday (Acts 8:1-4... listen here):

James 1:12–15 (NIV84) "12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. 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."

We often think that God is tempting us, just waiting for us to screw up so he can say, "I told you so!"  The opposite couldn't be more true.  God does test us, but he does not tempt us... and there is a big difference.  Tempting sets us up for failure.  Testing sets us up for success... and God is all about seeing us succeed (hence Jesus).  Earlier in James 1:2-4 he says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."  then he follows it up with this confirmation in v. 17 "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

In other words... God does not hide or mask himself slipping around in the shadows trying to trick us (that's what Satan does).  God never changes and He always makes Himself known.  He will give you wisdom if you ask for it (James 1:5) to know the details of your situation and how to respond.

As you begin the work/school part of this week, may you know that God is cheering you on, setting you up for success (even if it is in the form of a test... it is a test that you can pass and use to grow in your purpose, fulfillment, and calling)!