Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial.

James 1:13-15, Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, .I am being tempted by God.; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.

James makes it clear that it is our own lust that opens us to temptation. And that there is a progression, once begun, that may have serious consequences: death. We can certainly ask Him to lead us in the paths of righteousness, and away from those things that tempt us. He wants us to persevere when these things come our way. Am I looking for the things that stir my affections for Jesus?

I want to keep my eyes you You, Lord, to turn away from temptation to those things that stir my affections for You!