Exit Strategy
Wherefore
let him that thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.There is no temptation
taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not tempt
you above you are able; but will with the every temptation also make a way to
escape, that you may be able to bear it. 1
Corinthians 10:11-13
Imagination and
innovation are considered today’s most valuable gifts to have in the world
today. Those institutions and companies that are on the cutting edge of
academia, research, business, and technology are the most successful because of
innovation in a fast changing world. In the same way in a small way it is those
people who have consciously made an effort to stay healthy, who have remained
in the pink of health.
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The Temptations of Christ, 12th century mosaic at St Mark's Basilica, Venice
Our Christian lives are
no better. It is only when we make a conscious effort or see the need to
improve our habits that we make progress. But what does one do when temptations
are always there. How does one resist the temptation? God’s Word says there is
no temptation that is common to man that if we strive to be faithful, God will
always be faithful. He will always show us a way out. Todays temptations are no
where near the ones that were there a few generations back, but with healthy
imagination and shrewd innovative strategies we can find ourselves out of a
risky situation.
Where ever you go, “Be
prepared and Have a plan.” A fellowship
group where we can share our thoughts and anxieties, a friend we can confide
in, a ministry we can be part of, the Bible or a good book to read, prayer,
memorized scripture, and meditation are plans of action to have in times of
enticement.
“Any man is liable to err; only a fool persists in error,”
the wise words of the Roman philosopher Cicero. When we do stumble and fall,
the wisest thing to do is to admit the mistake, seek forgiveness and get back
on the right track. Learn from King
David, who fell from grace yet was humble enough to seek Gods forgiveness. God
is always ready to forgive. For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and
plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee (Psalm 86:5).
Lent is a time to plan exit
strategies in times of temptation. Let us never forget that Christ was tempted
and suffered, but never yielded to temptation (Hebrews 2:18). It is Christ who
can be the rock on which we can stand firm. Lent is a time to perceive those
habits in our lives that are of no use or those mistakes we have made that need
to be mended. Look at that beautiful apple tree; it did not bear fruit over
night. With the grace of God we will be able to find a way to restore our lives
and live fruitfully.
1 comment:
I like the reference to the apple tree.
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