April 9, 2011

Trapped

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Temptation is similar to the cheese on the mousetrap. Though WE understand the purpose of the mousetrap (to kill the mouse), the mouse is only drawn to the potential ‘benefit’ of having something to eat. The mouse has no concern of its location or any associated dangers…just a desire to be fed. In the end, it is the desire that leads to its demise.

What about you? What desire is drawing you to the trap of sin?

To keep the Apostle Paul in a state of humilty, a thorn in the flesh came to him. When he asked the Lord to remove the thorn, He said:

2 Corinthians 12:9 – And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (read 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 for context.)

Paul took pleasure in his infirmities, reproaches, necessities, persecutions, and distresses for Christ’s sake (2 Corinthians 12:10). He knew that in HIS weakness, he would be strong through the grace of God. Read this again…this is something many disciples are not taught. We are not taught to rejoice in trials, infirmities, reproaches, necessities, persecutions, and distresses for Christ’s sake (or anyone else’s for that matter). We just want to be rid of any and all tests. We believe the life of a Christians is one without any stress, problems, or persecution. Jesus didn’t say that…but the opposite (John 15:20 ; Acts 14:22; 2 Timothy 3:12). (For Acts 14:22, please read Acts 14:1-22 for context.)

God’s desire for your life may be to keep the mousetrap in front of you. However, though it remains before you, you don’t have to sample what it has to offer. You can fully rest in the grace of God to keep you and help you say NO!

1 Corinthians 10:12-13 – Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

You don’t have to feel trapped…rest in the grace of God and rejoice in the strength of your Lord!

^{Photo courtesy of Stock.XCHNG.com/Patti}