Well it never fails! God always provides examples in areas where I need work. About two years ago, in my law enforcement capacity, I was called to address the increase of teens and texting. It seems that churches, schools, and homes were experiencing a serious issue with texting. I very meticulously put together a powerpoint presentation and presented it to a school group and a girls social group. I took the liberty of adding "Do not text and drive!"
When my son received his license and a new truck the same rules applied. Do not text and drive. I can recall when I was on patrol about twenty years ago. A vehicle swerving in and out of it's lane usually meant someone was "under the influence" and you that was usually limited to hours beginning around 9pm.
Today, you can witness vehicles on the freeway travelling at 30 miles an hour and when you pass them up, you see they have the thumb texting action going with them oblivious to the traffic hazard they are creating. Many have lost their lives being distracted from traffic due to a text. I myself have often been frustrated by the slow poke on a main street who has his phone held high texting and driving. I usually pass them up and make a comment. Nothing strong you know but something like "Crazy man" or "silly girl."
Today however, I found myself in that test. I had a message I just had to get out. So you guessed it I sent a text...while I was driving. Oh-I justified it though. I was sitting at a red light so I was good. Unfortunately, when it turned green the text was too long and I still had three more words to type. Once I typed them, I threw my phone on the floorboard so as to not be tempted to do it again.
Why is it that when we are put to the test, we often think the law, command, or rule can't possibly apply to us....it's only this one time. And I was doing it for the good of the people. I had to get that message across because my response would affect several individuals.
It's the same with sin. Yes, we know what God's Word says but if we could do it just this one time, or if we could just disobey a little. I once read that "Partial obedience is disobedience and delayed obedience is disobedience." I pray that God will convict me in this area and that I will not try to justify my actions when I violate God's Word.
The only difference in text and test is one letter and the only difference in following Christ vs doing our will is one word...obedience.
Will you pass the test?
The Lord your God commands you this day to follow these decrees and laws, carefully observe them with all your heart and with all your soul. You have declared this day that the Lord is your God and that you will walk in his ways, that you will keep his decrees, commands, and laws and that you will obey him. Deuteronomy 26:16-17
1 comment:
Really good stuff!
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