Trials, tests, temptations

What is the difference between trials (or tests) and temptation? 

All our internal turmoil, anger, anxieties, fears etc come from the threat of losing something we believe we must have in order to have significance, importance, meaning, value etc. 

The more we see and experience God as the source of our our worth - i.e.  glory - the less internal turmoil we have. Instead we have peace that is beyond understanding - i.e. peace that makes no sense in light of our struggles. 

"I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” - Jesus in John 16:33 

Every trial becomes a temptation. Any change in your circumstances - whether good or bad - is a test/trial. If you fall into poverty or riches, adversity or prosperity, success or failure, it tests your faith. i.e. will it will draw you to or away from greater trust in God.

Anything we pursue - be it praise, money, fame, recreation, physical intimacy, entertainment etc - which becomes the basis for our worth, significance, importance, value, approval, acceptance etc, more than God - is our god, i.e., an idol. 

Tests will push you to become a better or worse person based on how you handle them. 

Either way, you will not stay the same. Trails are opportunities for growth or distraction, making you better or worse. 

Jas 1:2-4 Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way. - The Message translation

The only legitimate reason for any pursuit is to honor and glorify God. Not only so but it is in pursuit of God's glory we also find our true and greatest worth and joy.