Matthew 15:18 But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. 19 For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. 20 These are the things which defile a man.
The human family is tempted in two main ways: [1] Via our five senses, through which we communicate with the outside world. [2] Through temptations or cravings that are cultivated internally, in the mind. And while temptation in and of itself is not a sin, the much more dangerous of the two previous methods mentioned, is the temptation which often occurs internally.
This kind occurs without any provocation from devils, for while it is true that they continue to do their dirty work relentlessly, the fact is that if left alone, folks can run on automatic, without any external input. This issue must be addressed head-on, for far too long folks have blamed devils wrongfully, when in very many instances, devils did not interfere nor did they trigger the evil thoughts that set into motion the temptation with which one was tempted in his or her mind.
Individuals do not necessarily need to be tempted externally in order for sinful thought to be triggered or for any sinful suggestions to reach maturity into actions. The human mind will run involuntarily in a downward trajectory so that without Christ, no one has to be tempted, provoked or encouraged to sin. They will do so on their own.
Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!