Derek Smith
Lead Pastor
1 Corinthians 10:13
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.
One of my favorite things to do outside of church and time with family is to fish. Bass fishing is my favorite because of all the strategy that goes into it. What are the fish doing today? Are they deep? Are they shallow? Are they on the river ledges? Are they congregating around lay down trees or brush? Are they suspending near rock banks? The most important question of all, however, is what bait will they bite? When it comes to bait you’ve got crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, jigs, plastics like worms or lizards, topwater baits…..and the list goes on and on; and they come in all kinds of sizes, shapes, and colors. If a fish might eat it, a fisherman has come up with it.
The devil is a master fisherman, and he loves to catch us in sin. He does this through throwing all kinds of bait at us. The things he throws at us all look good, they appeal to the flesh, they promise fulfillment and satisfaction, but taking the bait only leads to pain and confusion. Soon we are pulled right out of the relationships that matter most and the purposes for which God saved us. We all face temptation, and the good news is that through Christ we have a way of escape. Through the person of Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit, the promises of God’s Word, and the prayers of God’s people we can overcome. So, Child of God, don’t take the bait! Feed on the good Word of God with the people of God in the power of the Spirit and you’ll swim free and happy in the waters of life.