Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV
Do you remember a time in perhaps in your teenaged years when you did something stupid, if not dangerous? It's highly likely when upon your parents hearing about it -- face it; they usually did -- your response was, "But Mom (it was usually mom) everyone else is doing it." She, in response, would reply from the Book of Motherly Wisdom, "If everyone else jumped off a cliff, would you?" To which, if you were smart, you remained quiet; it only got worse from there. Her point being though, there is wisdom in not conforming to peer pressure, especially if you don't want to be caught perched on the proverbial cliff.
Spiritually we find any time we begin to conform to the world's temptations; we are likely to find ourselves perilously perched on the edge of the chasm of sin. Satan being who he is, is always joyous to lead us into danger. He is nothing if not persistent in his pursuit, picking away at the scabs of our weakness every day.
The wholly human Jesus well understood this temptation. Satan in Mathew 4 told Jesus (my paraphrasing), "Go ahead and jump. God will send angels to save you." Jesus' reply, born of the wisdom of his Father, "Don't tempt God." Satan says the same thing to us today, "Go ahead, jump. God won't let you get hurt." However, we know from experience this is not true. Too often, we find ourselves at the bottom of a ravine bruised and battered. However, in seeking God's help before we become tempted, are we able to ignore Satan's voice. God desires us to remain on the safe ground of his will, well away from the cliff's edge.
God, we give you thanks for your safety. In your love and compassion, you give us the strength to withstand temptation. However, when we sin and humbly and honestly seek forgiveness, you lift us, heal us, and set us again on the right. Father, please help us this day to follow your "good, pleasing and perfect will." We ask this in your Son Jesus Christ. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
