pSometimes, temptations come our way that leave us with a split-second choice to make: follow what we *wish* God wanted us to do, or stay close to what He actually wants us to do. Here’s what we mean: in 1 Samuel, we hear how David and King Saul didn’t get on too well. Saul had tried to kill David rather than letting him rightfully take Israel’s throne. Even though God had promised that to David.br /
Then comes 1 Samuel 26:8: one of David’s soldiers found Saul asleep, and reported to David that ‘God has delivered your enemy into your hands’ (NIV). Great. The chance to take Saul out had finally arrived, and all David needed to do was draw his sword. Except that David was intent on staying as close to God as he possibly could, saying, ‘The LORD forbid that I should lay a hand on the LORD’s anointed’ (v. 11 NIV).br /
Whatever God wants for you, opportunities that cut a big corner can, and will, present themselves. What to do? Decide in your heart right now, before that comes along, to stay true to the values that God wants in your life. Even if it means waiting. That’s not easy, but when you give it to God, He’ll prompt you so you know whether to pass up on something that looks good, but isn’t from Him./p
pWhat now?br /
Do something practical to decide now that you’ll try to choose what God wants. Find another Christian to meet up with/call/email regularly, who you can contact easily when you need it. Choose to be honest with them about your temptations, and ask them to tell you off when you need it, to keep you on track./p