As I was driving home from a revival service last night a thought crossed my mind. It was connected to this verse found in 1 Corinthians 10:13.
13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
I have often heard people pray and ask God to make a way for them. “Lord, make a way.” As I thought about this I realized that many times we are not asking God to provide for us HIS way. We are asking God to provide a way to suites OUR desires. The gulf between these two points of view is staggering.
As I was driving home I was astonished at how easily we are seduced into thinking that God’s favor and love and grace gives us permission to ask anything we want from God. We come to him as spoiled children, rather than grateful debtors. Our adoption into the family does not mean we now become prideful regarding our new position. We should remain humbled and appreciative of God’s kindness toward us.
When we ask God to make a way we need to be ready to take the way HE provides. When we ask God to make a way we must understand that we are surrendering our “right” to complain about the path to freedom. God will provide a way that leads to him. He is not interested in leading you to any other destination. My relationship with God is more important to him than my bank account, my health, my status, my titles, my accomplishments. The way of escape will always lead to Him.
Asking God for a way of escape is a dangerous request. If we are unwilling to take the avenue provided, then we are praying in vain. If we are unwilling to accept the road to God’s deliverance, then we are not really interested in getting out of where we are. If what we want is have it our way, then go to Burger King because God does not and will do anything to accommodate our whims and worldly aspirations.
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