My small group met last night and as usual, somewhere in the middle of the bible study we got a little off course...but that's never a bad thing. Something about what we are studying always leads us to question something else, which always brings us back to the way God works in our lives. And I think that's the point...isn't it? I enjoy chasing these rabbits!! (thank you Mr. Popnoe)
Last night we were discussing the humanity of Jesus and the purpose of him being tempted by Satan. I can tell you right now why I'm not Jesus...I wouldn't have lasted 40 minutes, never mind 40 days. But as we began to talk about Jesus' reaction to the temptations, and compare our own reactions, I was reminded of a verse that I learned a long time ago...
1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
He will provide a way out...that's the key.
You see, earlier that day, I had allowed myself to be placed in a situation that I knew would not be good for me. I hadn't actually gone through with it yet, but after small group, I would have to follow through on my commitment and I didn't know what to do about it. So I asked God to provide a way out of the upcoming situation, even though I didn't see how it could possibly happen. But I didn't' worry about the logistics. I chose to believe that he would show himself faithful and I finished the evening with my small group without worrying about what would happen later.
As soon as I left the group, I checked my voicemail. I had a message that the obligation had been cancelled. I wouldn't have to follow through after all. I wish you could have seen the reaction on my face...and my heart.
Believing and expecting are the two things that God has chosen to teach me about this week and I am thankful for that. As you think about the convictions that God has given you and the way that you deal with temptations, just remember that nothing is impossible. It's not up to us to find a way to deal with those things that lead us down the wrong road...that's God's job. Just tell him about it and believe that he hears you and will help you know what to do.
Thank you God for hitting me upside the head with your grace and protection!!
