“When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed.  Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full grown, gives birth to death.”  James 1:13-15

Although I have watched “Finding Nemo” and have observed the piscine attitudes in different Dr. Seuss’ books, I am not a fish psychologist.  I really don’t know how they think, what they feel, or what motivates them.  However, I was wondering why they keep going after the bait even after they have sampled it and realized that there is a hook attached.

Here is what I mean.  When fishing, a baited hook is often snacked on several times before it is aggressively attacked.  It is common to see the bobber wiggle on top of the water before it disappears. This means that fish are swimming up to the bait (lets say a big, fat, juicy worm) and nibbling on it.  They must sense the surprise.  They must feel the sharp edge of the hook. Yet, they still come back for more.

Today I was thinking about that.  “Why are they continually tempted by the worm if they know that it is a trap?  If they know that danger is so close, whey do they keep coming back for more?”   

I think I have an answer.  The lure (no pun intended) of the delectable worm distorts their ability to think long term.  And, seeking only momentary satisfaction, they convince themselves that they can snatch the worm and avoid the hook.

I can’t help but think that the fish’s parents, their teachers (they do swim in schools), or their pastors (go with me on this) watch from a distance and try to warn them of the danger.  “It’s a trap.  Don’t get too close to the worm.” Yet the naïve fish with less life experience respond, “I can handle it. I can eat the worm without getting caught on the hook.” 

As I already said, I don’t claim to know how fish think, but my picture is an accurate representation of how humans think.  The Bible warns of the dangers of sin.  It is a trap and leads to death, yet so often we continue to nibble on the bait thinking we won’t get caught.  

The bible says, “Flee the evil desires of youth”, because there is a dangerous hook hidden beneath its allure.  Yet instead of running away, we get as close as we can.

Just as fish would be better off if they swam away from hooks, so you and I will be better off if we stop playing games with temptation and disobedience. 

You can’t enjoy the bait and avoid the hook.

Can you think of some times in your life when you have tried to beat the system?  Have you tried to steal the bait and avoid the hook?  How did that work out for you?  Is the Lord warning you about anything like that currently?   

Assuming that there are certain temptations that you struggle with more than others find a scripture or two that speaks specifically to that area.  Memorize at least one.

I Have A Question

Would You Pray With Me?