A Way of Escape

When I was in the fourth grade, I was concerned astronauts on the Space Shuttle might not be able to return to earth in case of a problem. My teacher and I developed a bubble that an astronaut could get in and return safely to earth. Mr. Miller and I drew some diagrams and wrote a description and sent all of our information to the Johnson Space Center. I got a really nice letter back, but the gist of the letter was “Thanks, but no thanks.”

Escape can be important. Whenever you fly, flight attendants point out the airplane’s exits. Movie theaters play a short trailer before the main feature reminding you to locate the exits. Apartment buildings have fire escapes. Being able to get out of a threatening situation is important.

God also provides a way of escape: “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your strength, but with the temptation will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it” (1 Cor 10:13, RSV). Whenever temptation comes into our lives, God provides a way of escape.

Unfortunately, we often—like NASA when I was a kid—say, “Thanks, but no thanks.” We do not look for the escape; we do not want the escape; we do not take the escape. Instead, we willingly engage in sin.

When we’re tempted, let’s look for the way of escape God graciously offers. Let us desire that way of escape that we might not sin. Let us take that way of escape instead of yielding to the temptation.