Mindy Lee Hopman

Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 (ESV)

One year ago our family inherited an incredibly sweet-small dog.  I had no idea how much I would love having a dog small enough to sit on my lap and snuggle.  All my life I have only known big dogs.  This little dog actually sits on my chair in front of the desk where I study and write, and he waits for me to sit down.  If I’m cooking in the kitchen, he waits for me.  When I’m doing the dishes, he waits for me.  He watches me until I take time to sit.  He would stay in a lap all day long if he could.

However, if I let him go outside to the backyard without a leash – he forgets how good he has it at home.  As soon as he sniffs a temptation, he runs off and I have to go chasing him!

I like to think we know better, but isn’t that how we are sometimes? How many times do we forget the depth of God’s love, His promises to us, and how much He has done for us?   Even though we have been redeemed by the blood of Christ, we still face temptation.  Maybe it’s a food you love, or the gossip you just had to share, or maybe it’s something more serious such as alcohol, drugs, an affair, idolatry, or pornography…

God provides a way out – for those who love Him.

God provides a way out, because He knows your heart.  

God knew Noah’s heart.  He was upset with the way the people were choosing to live, so God decided to destroy His creation.  However, He provided a way out for Noah.  Noah chose to obey God’s commands, and he created a boat (even though he didn’t understand why he was doing it at the time).

For the righteous of the time, God provided a way out.  One arc.  One entrance.

God has provided a way out for you – forgiveness comes by way of the cross.  Strength and power come by way of the Spirit.

We do not worship a God who does not understand us.  Jesus was tempted, too.  By focusing on the joy he knew laid just ahead, He overcame the tempter.

You have the POWER of the Holy Spirit to help you withstand temptations you are facing. 

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 John 4:4 (NIV)

Every heart must come down; Every stronghold must be broken.  You wear the victor’s crown.  You overcome!

…fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)

Hold on through the temptation, and in the end you will wear the victor’s crown.

If you run off, God will come chasing you.  You will not be able to stay there.

His love for you is greater than any temptation you will ever face. It’s everlasting.

Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.  Revelation 2:10 (NIV)

Is what you are struggling with today something you can’t bear on your own? You may need to seek out a friend or a counselor to help you.  Pray, seek guidance, remember His promises, and rest in His presence.

This is a part of your story.

Basking in His Light

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