Once we take the plunge into sin, and we’re in over our head, we can no longer be led “not into”, but need to be delivered “out of”.
Temptation provides resistance training. Just as roots will strengthen when the wind blows against a tree, each time we stand firm against the force of temptation we become stronger.
If you’re a good parent, you’d never tempt your teen to get drunk or high, or to commit sexual sin; but, you’ll drive ‘em to the prom!
There’s no compelling reason to forgive those who’ve hurt me if I only see it as my generosity. But I’m empowered to forgive when I begin to see it as my gratitude to Christ.
Just let Dad see the mess you’ve made, and then let Him do what only He can do, and what He does best: cleansing us and changing us.
Whatever trial, hurdle, test, or disaster we might face in our moment of truth, the truest provision will always come from knowing the Words of the Truest Bread.
We think of the will as fairly straightforward: I desire; I advance; I obtain. But if, for instance, you’ve ever taken kids to Disneyland, you know that a parent’s will is a bit more … complex.
To pray “YOUR kingdom come,” is to pray for all those who are outside the kingdom that come into our heart.
Why did these wise guys travel 1000 miles to bring these gifts?