The Attack

One of the things that happens when “things are going well” (do you remember that sermon?) is that we can get complacent. That satisfaction with life can make us put our guard down because, “Well, look at how good we’re doing. Things are okay.” Another thing that can happen is “attack.” Which may be two sides of the same coin… one side being beguiling and the other being confrontational. Did you know that when we pray our Lord’s Prayer each week and say, “Don’t lead us into temptation…” the actual word there is a word for “attack?” Don’t lead us into the moments where we are attacked. It’s a different perspective on temptation. The temptations involved in these two sides of the same coin are to give in to the invitation because “things are going well,” and this is just another way to relax, to enjoy the good time. It’s not that big a deal… until the consequences come. The one side is to give in to the temptation of pride, pride in being “good” and “well.” The other side’s temptation is to rely on our own strength in the face of confrontation. We can get angry. We can strike out. We can try to make the other person or group feel the pain we’re feeling. I thought it would be good to remind you that these kinds of temptations come because we are in a good place with God. This church is in a good place with God. God has been building this place up into strength, assurance, and a positive outlook toward the future. Right now, on social media, we are seeing and hearing a host of derogatory things that don’t represent us. That’s important to know and to remember. What people are saying has nothing to do with who we are. Our job, at the time of attack, is to keep following our Lord. He’ll bring us through the battle. Blessings, Geoff