The Intersection

An intersection is where two or more things meet one another. I have heard and I often share with people that you have to be careful at the intersection of temptation and opportunity. We are all tempted from time to time (anyone who says that they are not is a liar) but, often, the opportunity isn't there. There are other times when the opportunity may present itself but we are strong in our faith and in our walk and we are not tempted to succumb to the temptation. HOWEVER, you must be careful if you find yourself approaching the intersection, the crossroad, the meeting of temptation and opportunity.

I am a man, a HU-MAN, with carnal temptations. However, what I must guard against is finding opportunity. So, as I travel, I must make sure that I don't allow myself to approach the intersection. I may need to turn around, or take another route. We must not allow ourselves to approach the intersection of temptation and opportunity.

Today's word is Hebrews 11:25, NIV, which reads, "He (Moses) chose to be mistreated along with the people of GOD rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin."

If you're looking for an "out", you may read the first part of this verse and say, "Well, I don't want to be mistreated," and go out and sin. But, don't stop there. It reads that Moses chose to be mistreated with the people of GOD. If you are in the center of GOD'S will, if you are living for GOD, if you are doing what GOD wants you to do, you will find that it is a small sacrifice to endure this world's nasty glares, stares, and snares compared to the sacrifice made for us. The important part of today's word is that last part..."rather than to enjoy the FLEETING pleasures of sin."

The pleasures of sin are FLEETING. You may enjoy the five minutes of physical sin but you will endure countless years of emotional and spiritual pain. If you ever violate the trust that someone has in you, you will NEVER get it back. EVER! Now, is five minutes of sinful pleasure worth a lifetime of distrust? Is five minutes of sinful pleasure worth a lifetime of trying to rebuild what has been destroyed? I dare say, "Nay. Nay."

We are humans, saved by grace, walking in a cruel and sinful world. As we walk, don't lose focus, don't detour, don't approach the intersection of temptation and opportunity.

Be Blessed,
Mickey T