A Mother’s Wisdom

Dear friends,

In America, this coming Sunday is Mother’s Day. I know I am just one of many millions who are thankful to God for giving them a loving mother. That is not to say, however, that my mother was not tough when she needed to be! She did not like excuses for sin. In fact I recall a time when she encouraged me to memorize the following scripture verse:

“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 always provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it” (1 Cor. 10:13).

This knowledge made it rather difficult for me to make excuses for the things I did that were displeasing in the eyes of God (or my mother). Her efforts to plant this in my heart prevented me from getting away with excuses. But I think she knew that I would be condemned by the verse too. I was condemned by it, because I gave into temptation. And this without excuse, because every sin was an offense against God, who had provided a route of escape.

Thankfully, mom (along with my dad) was quick to bring in the Good News. Although I was a sinner without excuse, Jesus had died for my sins. Faith in Him would deliver me! So, while she would never tolerate excuses for sin, she always had the antidote on her lips. No excuses. Trust Jesus.

Thanks Mom!

Your servant,

Stephen

Rev. Stephen St. John