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

Give God Credit

Throughout recorded history God has given special abilities to select individuals who would work for his purpose. Joseph’s unique gift was interpreting dreams, which he did sparingly. On one occasion Joseph was summoned from prison to interpret the king of Egypt’s dreams and gave God credit for the interpretations.

 

          Joseph saw himself as an instrument through which God expressed his power and pleasure. This attitude gave Joseph credibility as he explained to Pharaoh that God would reveal the meaning of his dreams. Pharaoh saw Joseph as a representative of God, who is honored when we realize the fact that all we are and all we can do result from His power within us. 

          This attitude acknowledges God designed us for a special purpose that brings glory and honor to himself. God gives us wisdom to ensure that his purpose is implemented for His glory. We benefit as we realize "He is our God and we are His people." Give God credit for the good things He accomplishes through you.  

_________________________ 

Let your light shine before people in such a way that they may see your good deeds, and praise your Father in heaven.

~Matthew 5:16 Williams – New Testament in the Language of the People

We don’t deserve praise! The Lord alone deserves all the praise, because of his love and faithfulness.

~Psalm 115:1 Contemporary English Version