The Great Escape!

The desktop background on my laptop computer is presently a picture of my wife and I in our kayaking gear as we stand in front of our kayak. Looking at the picture my attention was drawn to the word "Escape" on our paddles. In a sense, kayaking is an escape for us. We enjoy escaping from the other tasks of busy life to enjoy some time together out on the water. It is an escape that offers some good exercise for the body, but also some therapy for the mind. Kayaking places us where we are out enjoying some of God's beautiful creation.

When it comes to escapes there are many things which may come to mind. For some it might be the exiting of a building that is on fire. One may even think of someone breaking out of prison. Perhaps some would think of a trick once pulled off by Houdini? Then there are those who plug their IPODS and MP3 players into their ears to escape the noise or other distractions around them. There are also those who turn to alcohol and drugs to escape life. However, not all that is used as an escape actually brings one into better life circumstances.

In Paul's first letter to the church at Corinth we read. . .
"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but WITH THE TEMPTATION HE WILL ALSO PROVIDE THE WAY OF ESCAPE, that you may be able to endure it." ( 1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV)

The Greek word translated "escape" is "ekbasin", which means "to go out." (It is a compound of "ek", out, and "baino", to go). It is a way out or an exit. Even in a burning building the right escape must be utilized to save the life. Some have run the wrong direction, only to find themselves trapped. The same can happen with temptation. It is God Who provides "The Great Escape" from temptation, but we must accept and use that escape. Some do not escape simply because they remain instead of fleeing to safety.

Loss of life can be the result when an escape from danger is not made. However, to fail to seek to escape temptation and sin is of eternal consequence. May we recognize and use the exits God provides for fleeing temptation and living in His Will. It is God's Way out that leads to abundant life now and eternal life to come.

Have a great day TAKING GOD'S WAY OUT!
Carl

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