Different Paths – Different Destinations

The Old Testament story of Samson echoes the story of Israel. An angel of God announced his birth and proclaimed that he was to be dedicated to the Lord for a special purpose. God gave him special powers for securing that purpose. Yet as he grew into adulthood, Samson’s lusty passions would lead him down the road to destruction.

In a similar way at a later time, God chose Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you. Before you were born, I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to Israel.” Jeremiah’s passion for proclaiming God’s message sent him out into the streets to alert Israel they must turn back to God to avoid the destruction that was looming on the horizon for them. However unlike Jeremiah’s passion, Samson’s ungodly passion led him to pursue Delilah, the woman responsible for securing his downfall.

While each person will undergo temptations to forsake their higher calling, for every temptation God is faithful to provide a way to escape the entrapment of being lured into sin. Like Samson, we’re often inundated by Satan’s fiery darts, but thanks be to God for Christ Jesus our safeguard, who will shield us from the power of ungodly passions.   

______________________ 

No temptation has come your way that is too hard for flesh and blood to bear. But God can be trusted not to allow you to suffer any temptation beyond your powers of endurance. He will see to it that every temptation has its way out, so that it will be possible for you to bear it.

~1 Corinthians 10:13 Phillips – New Testament in Modern English

Happy is the man who doesn’t give in and do wrong when he is tempted, for afterwards he will get as his reward the crown of life that God has promised those who love him.

James 1:12 The Living Bible

At a Crossroads? Get Out of the Rut and Reach Higher - Part 2

Mapping the brain continues to be an objective of scientists who research this magnificent, mysterious part of our body. Mapping the brain helps doctors diagnose, treat, and heal physical and mental disorders. The brain seems so complex, we tend to give it little consideration. The reason is, we’re busy making needed pathways through the difficulties and complexities of life.

It’s on these pathways that we come to a crossroads where circumstances require us to choose what is possible or impossible. After fifteen years of marriage a husband presented his wife with a divorce decree, due in part to her withdrawal of affection. While there was no stated reason for the withdrawal, he was firm in seeking the divorce.

Help for managing shock, hurt, and confusion at a crossroads is found in Proverbs 3:5-6. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." What clearer map could you choose to follow?