There was an AA meeting going on at this church building. And I saw this truck parked there.
Paul urges us to put “off” our sin, and put something “on” in its place (Ephesians 4:22-32). So if you struggle with lying, you should consciously start going out of your way to share the truth. If you struggle with anger, go out of your way to seek reconciliation. If you struggle with stealing, you should consciously “put on” honest work and generosity. If you struggle with a loose, corrupting vocabulary, you should “put on” words that give grace to others.
If you struggle with alcoholism, maybe it’s time to find an occupation that doesn’t feed that temptation.*
There’s a time to stick it out and work through your sins and weaknesses. But there’s also a time to run.
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise… (Ephesians 5:15)
Have you ever had to quit a job because it tempted you to dishonor God?
Have you ever been in a situation where you should’ve run, but decided to stay?
* This is not a statement against AA, or against drinking alcohol. I’m simply urging cautious wisdom, and learning how to do battle against our sin natures.
