Here it is, my final rambling regarding our recent ice and snow events. The frigid conditions created only minor interruptions in my daily routine. In other words, my workshop time continued without any modifications. I have a heavy duty construction site heater that gets things very cozy, very quickly. I do, however, occasionally take a break returning to the hyper comforts of the house to grab a snack.

On a one trip back to the house, Donna noticed I had something on the back leg of my pants. I was wearing pants that were actually part of a ski suit I purchased many years ago. The fabric was some type of a synthetic material made to keep you warm in extreme cold conditions. Upon investigation, it was apparent that I had stood too close to the workshop heater and my pant leg had actually melted. WOW !!! I’m not kidding.

The amazing thing about the ordeal was that I was not aware of the circumstances. I had no idea I was standing too close to danger until another brought it to my attention. Isn’t navigating our lives through this sinful world much like that? Sometimes we hang out too close to dangerous temptations never realizing our pants (or other parts) are getting burned.

1 Corinthians 6:18 challenges each of us to "choose distance" from the things that tempt us. Close proximity increases temptation. Just like in my case, it’s important we have folks in our lives that bring awareness of such to our attention. I call these folks accountability partners. I have several in my life. They are trusted friends who are not afraid to hurt your feelings. Remember, as we hear in James 1:14, that "temptation is baited by our own desires starting small and appealing until eventually bringing destruction".

In closing, I reference Proverbs 6:28: "You can’t hold fire close and expect not to get burned. Temptation grows destructive when we ignore wise boundaries". Don’t stand too close to the flame of sin and temptation. And while you’re at it, if you see a brother doing so, snatch him away. He might not like it or may even be offended. But that is what God calls us to do. You know ……. look out for each other.