Years ago I heard a story about a wealthy woman who advertised for a new driver. She asked the three applicants this question: “How close to a cliff could you drive?”
The first man said he could drive within an inch of the edge of the cliff. The second made the same claim. The third said, “I really couldn’t tell you because I try to keep as far away from danger as I can.”
Whom do you think she hired?
There is a lesson in this story for all of us. Let’s say the edge of the cliff is temptation. Do we risk getting as close to edge as possible without thinking of the possibility of falling off? Or do we stay away from danger?
We all have weaknesses. If we know what our weaknesses are, perhaps we should avoid putting ourselves in situations where we would be tempted to succumb to them. For example:
- If you are tempted to overeat, stay away from Hometown Buffet.
- If you are an alcoholic, stay away from bars.
- If you are a drug addict, stay away from drug addicts.
- If you are a shopaholic, stay away from Macy’s (and cut up your credit cards).
- If you have a gambling problem, stay away from Vegas.
- If you are depressed, stay away from negative people.
Speaking of negative people, remember that who you hang around with makes a difference. You want people in your life who support staying away from temptation, not encourage it. “Bad company corrupts good character.” (1 Corinthians 15:33 NLT)
Temptations will always be around. After all, even Jesus was tempted by the devil. Today’s culture is particularly ripe with enticements and each day we face a myriad of opportunities to do what in our hearts we know is wrong. However, how many of us when given a choice purposefully come as close to the edge of temptation as possible thinking we won’t fall off?
Remember that it is easier to avoid temptation than overcome it. In speaking of paths of the wicked the bible says: “Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.” (Proverbs 4:15) I think the same would apply to temptation. In other words, stay as far away from danger as you can!
