GETTING IN IS EASIER THAN GETTTING OUT
Seven-year-old Timmy Novotny was grocery shopping with his dad at a Piggly Wiggly store in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. His father paused to make a phone call. (For those under forty, google “pay phones.” They’re ancient relics from a bygone era). As his dad talked, Timmy stood mesmerized by a kiosk filled with dozens of stuffed animals—a game with a joy-stick operated claw, where you try to pick up an animal.
Turning around, Timmy's dad discovered that his son had climbed through the chute where the toys come out; curled up among all the stuffed creatures that had "called to him" through the glass. But Timmy was stuck, unable to climb through the passageway. The store manager called the fire department, and with the help of a locksmith, they rescued the boy in about an hour. First responders were baffled as to how he could fit through the eight-by-ten-inch chute. (Source: The FAX of Life, 1/26/04)
Hopefully, young Timmy learned a valuable lesson. Some situations in life are a lot easier to get into than getting out of. Couldn't that axiom be applied to almost every aspect of life? A teen experimenting with drugs or sex. A man with a troubled marriage, finding comfort in the arms of another woman. Internet porn or gambling? As easy to fall into as breathing oxygen. But getting out once you're hooked? That’s a different story. I’m not judging anyone entrapped in sin; but we all need help navigating the seas of temptation.
Praise God, there’s a way to deal with the “stuffed animals” calling out to us. First Corinthians 10:13 states, “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” (GNT). Look for the way out. Run if necessary (I Tim.2:22). But face it. Often we don’t want the way out—until it’s too late.
Timmy learned a lesson many adults fail to grasp. The best way to avoid compromising situations is to turn away at first glance. Lift your eyes off your temptation, and fix them on Jesus. Don’t wait for the trap door to spring shut on us. Then we’ll find ourselves stuck in a tight spot, unable to move. Don’t allow enchantment to turn into entrapment. Remember getting in is a whole lot easier than getting out.
Principle: A lot of situations in life are easier to get into than to get out of.
Ponder:
When have you encountered something that was easier to get into than get out of?
What do you find to be the best way of escape with temptation?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study 1 Corinthians 6:12-20.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I need your help when I am tempted. Please help me seek the way of escape you’ve promised when I am tempted.
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