On the Brink of Disaster, part 3

On the brink of disaster ... at the edge of the cliff ... on a slippery slope ... at death's door ... in the pit of hell … unbearable suffering, is this you?  Ever been there?  Ever felt that way? Are you there now?

Are you being tempted?  Or, are you being tested?  Is there a difference between the two, you may be thinking? Yes, there is a difference.  God tests us, satan tempts us. While satan tempts, God may use that circumstance as a test to strengthen us. Even in temptation, God has already provided a way of escape (see 1 Corinthian 10:13).  God cannot and does not send temptation (see James 1:13).  Both tests and temptations provide opportunity for us to be obedient to the Word of God. 

No matter whether you're being tempted or you're being tested, you can overcome and be victorious.  Resist the temptation, pass the test.  This is a reminder of another of God's precious promises found in 1 Peter 5:10.  "And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast."  What in your experience may seem like forever, God calls a little while.  Consider Joseph as an example.  He was in the dungeon one day and made second in command in a foreign land before that same day was over.  When God restores, He makes you complete and what you ought to be in His sight.  He plants your feet securely on solid ground.  He does the impossible in the presence of your enemies. And you say, thank you Father, thank you Jesus!