A Way of escape

“For surely it is not angels that He helps, but He (Jesus) helps the offspring of Abraham.” Hebrews‬ ‭2:16‬ ‭ESV‬‬

“The Lord always provides a way of escape.”

My mother shared this thought with me one evening as we stood tidying the kitchen.

She continued, “Most of the times, it is just that we are not keen in paying attention to what He is doing or take the escape route He has provided.”

Somehow, her words of wisdom lodged themselves in my cerebral cortex. Like Mary, I even found myself treasuring and pondering these nuggets in my heart.

Later in the week, Zach suggested that we watch one of his shows while we had dinner. As his mom, I relish these moments, especially when I consider that as a senior in high school, there will be a shift in our dynamics real soon.

Growing up, my parents did not always make room for me to share my interests, especially if it did not line up with the teachings of the Bible. When it came to music and Tv shows that were, um, uncouth per their standards, I would be forbidden to watch or listen either with parents or on my own (though I confess I snuck and did). They seldom provided much explanation on their stance except perhaps their usual response because I said so.

While their decision held great merit, I’ve discovered that in order for me to know what is grabbing Zach’s attention, I need to avail myself to be emerged in his world. By doing this, I can also know how to pray on his behalf and how to gauge our conversations.

At the end of the second episode of his show, we both agreed to resume our watch of the season later on. Unfortunately, curiosity and intrigue got the better of me and I found myself wanting to know what the next episode would reveal. Sadly, my interest caused me to be glued to my screen for two additional episodes.

As I found myself immersed four episodes in, I saw a call coming in from a friend of mine. “Should I pause this show?” I found myself contemplating. As I wrestled with this decision for a few seconds I remembered what my mom had shared a few evenings earlier, “The Lord always provides a way of escape.”

I smiled to myself and accepted the call. The diversion to do this did two things for me. I was reminded that this show was not feeding or even nourishing my soul and secondly, that I had committed to a 10pm date with ABBA. Had I continued to watch the show, I would have possibly ended up finishing the season (umpteen more episodes later) and missing that quality time with my Lord. Ouch!

Friends, we all have different temptations that we face on a daily basis. Many times, the temptations do not even appear inherently evil. It could be busyness to the point of exhaustion so that quality time is not spent in prayer. How about sitting reading a wonderful godly book yet neglecting the opportunity to be a friend who gives of their time?

Temptations are varied and come to us in different ways. Because of this, we certainly need to be sensitive to the nudges and promptings of Holy Spirit. We also need to rely on the help that Christ offers to us. We need to be careful to take heed so that we do not sin (or walk in such a lifestyle).

I’m thankful that He understands and is very much familiar with our temptations. I am grateful our Lord had to be made like His brothers in every respect, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for us, His people. I am encouraged that because He suffered when tempted, He is able to help us who are being tempted. (Hebrews‬ ‭2:17-18‬, paraphrased).

“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

Thank You Jesus for not only providing a way of escape, but for being THE WAY of escape!