I had the opportunity last week to take my 9 year old son walleye fishing. We traveled the day prior to our planned fishing outing to Lake Oahe in central South Dakota. We were both eagerly anticipating getting out on the lake to try our hand at catching our limit. As things went, our limit was a long way off--in fact, we were each 4 fish shy of catching our limit of 4 fish.
Really, it was not about the fishing so much as it was getting away--just he and I for some one-on-one time. But, it sure would have been nice if we would have caught some fish.
After reflecting a bit on the trip, I began to think about the "lure of the hook." When fishing, a fish generally nips at a baited hook several times before aggressively attacking it. They must sense the surprise under the bait. But still, the fish keep coming back for more.
If they know that danger is so close, why do they keep going for the bait? I think it is because the lure is too delectable and it distorts their ability to think long-term (assuming fish can think long-term).
Isn't this kind of how we approach sin? Sin is a trap yet so often we continue to nibble on the bait thinking we won't get caught. Fish can't enjoy all the bait and avoid the hook. We are foolish to think we can mess with temptation and disobedience without the possibility of getting caught.
Are there certain things that lure you in? You know the danger, but still you go for the bait. God knows you have this weakness. And He is waiting for you to turn to Him with a surrendered heart that says, "I can't fight this on my own, but I know you can." Give it to God who can strengthen you to rely on Him to withstand the temptation and the deception of the lure. You don't have to fight the battle alone.
Stay Strong.
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