"Righteousness guards one whose way is upright, but sin overthrows the wicked." Proverbs 13:6 (NRSV)
In a class recently, the instructor introduced us to the First Law of Holes, which states, "if you find yourself in a hole, stop digging.” The problem with sin is that it removes from us the common sense to stop. Satan tells us if we dig just a little deeper, we may find a way out. He persuades us we like living in our hole; sure, it's a hole, but it's our hole, and it's safe and familiar. Outside of our hole is a world of fear we can't possibly handle, so just keep on digging.
God offers the incredible gift of salvation; he is always at the edge of that hole with his arm reaching down. An open invitation to grasp his outstretched hand so he can pull us out. All he asks is our willingness to put down our shovels and leave the digging behind. God offers us hope instead of despair and replacing our hole of sin with a path of righteousness. The path is not always easy, and at times we may be tempted to pick up our shovel, but God guards us. When we feel that temptation, we only need to remember our initial deliverance and how far we’ve come.
Gracious and Loving Savior, thank you for lifting us from our holes of sin. Please guard us this day from all temptation. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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