When God Leaves the Gate Unlatched

Well, jumpin’ Junebugs, friend, come right on up that walkway and scoot yourself right on up here onto this ol’ front porch before temptation starts prowlin’ around like a lil’ ol’ bobcat that smelled fried chicken through the screen door. Trouble has a knack for showin’ up dressed prettier than a Sunday coconut custard meringue pie and whisperin’ that one lil’ ol’ compromise surely won’t matter that much. Before long, though, that “lil” choice can grow some real sharp teeth.

That’s sho’-nuff’ why 1 Corinthians 10:13 is such a mighty promise as it says, “God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape.” That downright means that God don’t promise temptation won’t come. He promises that when it does, He will sho’-nuff’ provide a real good way out.

Paul points way backward to Israel’s wilderness failures in 1 Corinthians 10:6-12 and basically says, “Learn from this.” They had warnin’s, choices, and opportunities to turn away, yet they kept wanderin’ toward trouble like a lil’ ol’ goat that plum spotted an open feed sack.

Then comes the mercy of verse 13, which says, “God is faithful.” Friend, your victory don’t begin with how strong you are. It downright begins with how faithful He is.

That’s why Proverbs 4:14-15 gives such practical wisdom: “Enter not into the path of the wicked...Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.” Sometimes God’s way of escape looks downright ordinary. Close the browser. Leave the room. Change the conversation. Make the phone call. Pray before that thought gets comfortable enough to unpack its suitcase and hang around.

Temptation ain’t proof you’ve done failed. Yielding is where the trouble begins. So, don’t stand there admirin’ the trap like a lil’ ol’ raccoon inspectin’ a shiny pie plate. Take the exit God provides.

Father, thank You that You are faithful when temptation comes. Open my eyes quickly to the escape You provide and give me courage to take it without delay. Keep me humble enough to know I am vulnerable and wise enough to stay close to You. Strengthen my heart to choose obedience over momentary pleasure. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Alright now, friend, git yourself right on back into your day and keep your spiritual shoes tied real tight. If temptation comes knockin’, you ain’t required to invite it in for biscuits. God has already marked an exit somewhere nearby. Find it, take it, and leave temptation standin’ there plum lookin’ more confused than an ol’ rooster loungin’ around in the bottom of an ol’ empty rain barrel.