1 Corinthians 10:13 – Every test that you have experienced is the kind that normally comes to people. But God keeps his promise, and he will not allow you to be tested beyond your power to remain firm; at the time you are put to the test, he will give you the strength to endure it, and so provide you with a way out. (GNB)

We are having a concrete driveway, sidewalk, and patio poured. I wonder, "How will we come and go from our home while this work takes place?" We cannot walk on wet cement!

We will still have access to our front door, while the back patio is made, but not for long. The next day the side driveway and front walk will be started. There is only one entrance into our backyard, and this is at the edge of the side driveway. Our back door will be off limits for a few days. Then I realized that we will not be able to enter the front door either. A concrete walk will extend from the driveway to the house. This is being poured on the same day as the driveway.

As I became concerned about this, I remembered that we are replacing a portion of the walk in our front yard with shrubs. The way out of the house will be to walk on a gravel path. We will wait to plant evergreen shrubs until after the other concrete dries.

I do not like the thought of being trapped inside our home. This is similar to the fear of being caught up in sin with no way out. God calms me by telling me that He will provide much needed strength to endure temptation when it comes to me. He is the way out!

God's word instructs us to endure trials and temptations. In the 1990's when we want instant relief for everything from headaches, hard work, difficulties, grief, and depression, this is an unpopular message. The truth, though, is that going through temptations is the way out.

Prayer: Holy God, we desire to learn to walk in your way, yet we insist on instant relief when we are suffering. Teach us that the way out of life's difficulties is to walk through them with Jesus at our side. In Christ's strong name we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Mary Jane Hanson <mjh013@sasktel.net>
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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