The Step You'll Wish You Didn't Take And How to Avoid It

On A Personal Note

There are things in my life I wish I could go back and do over. You know, decisions that went badly, times I dragged my feet and missed out… But then there are those steps I took in my walk with God that loosened a stone that started a landslide — and my family got hurt.

The Text Message

In Gen. 34, Jacob knew what God wanted but did his own thing instead. He built his altar of witness in the place of disobedience and this misstep starts a landslide. His daughter goes first.

When we walk too close to the edge of obedience to God’s clear instructions we set a poor example for our family and those who identify us with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Dinah lived in a home where her mother competed to gain her husband’s love and never won it. Dad was running from something God wanted and walking after the flesh.

So the young teen goes out to see what else there is. And meets the opportunist.

Temptation’s predictable (v. 2): He saw her (we get tempted by what we look at); he took (pride convinces us we should have it); he defiled her (passion takes over (James 2:15-16).

The landslide has only just begun. In v. 5-12 we learn that those opposed to God are happy to yoke with Christian compromise. The best defense is a good “offense”.

You’ll have to risk offending others by saying no to compromise. The enemy of your soul is getting that stone ready and those you care about most need you to watch your step.

Let’s Take the Message Home

Twenty years ago a woman met me after a particularly challenging message about sin. She was pleasant and boldly told me she had planned to sin terribly after the service.

She didn’t tell me what, but said the message changed her mind, then thanked me. I never saw her again. But that’s the potential of considering your next step, now.

None of us have a perfect walk. We learn as we go. But some serious missteps are avoidable. We know what God expects and His word says. So, the next step starts there.

Where might you be building an altar in the place of disobedience before your loved ones and associates? Clarify what you’re doing, not doing, and why.

Now, before you take another step of disobedience or self-will, write down what the landslide looks like if you loosen the wrong stone. Clarify the consequences now.

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