Perseverance #2—Way Out Endurance

If you think you stand, pay attention so you do not fall. No trial of faith is new or unique; and God is faithful, in that he will not permit you to be tested beyond your ability, but with the test will even provide the way out, that you may be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:12–13

As the best basketball players move toward the basket, they watch for someone who may be open for a better shot. So in our movement toward Heaven, we must be alert for situations which present the possibility of obtaining our joy from someone or something other than God. If we watch for a way out of such situations, we will find it. For Jesus has promised that an alternative to sinning will be available. The God who is faithful to his promise to complete the work he began in us knows us, and he knows how strong our faith is. The key to success in trials is not how hard we fight, but how fast we flee. We flee by turning away from opportunities to worship any creation that promises us joy, and toward worshiping our Creator. We cannot serve God and mammon at the same time. So we must beware, lest in our everyday activities we become idolaters, hoping in our professions, our power, or our possessions for the good that only God gives. “My hope is in the Lord, who gave himself for me.” When we crave him, we will not cave in.

Faithful Lord, I have trusted you with my whole life. Be the light to my path and the wings for my feet, so I will keep moving to you despite any obstacles. Amen.