FOOD FOR THE SPIRIT--The Lord Knoweth How

"In some cases, temptation may have the added force of potential or actual addiction. I am grateful that for an increasing number of people the Church can provide therapeutic help of various kinds to aid them in avoiding or coping with addictions. Even so, while therapy can support a person’s will, it cannot substitute for it. Always and ever, there must be an exercise of discipline—moral discipline founded on faith in God the Father and the Son and what They can achieve with us through the atoning grace of Jesus Christ. In Peter’s words, 'The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations' (2 Peter 2:9)" (Elder D. Todd Christopherson, "Moral Discipline," General Conference, October, 2009).

Wow~ where has THAT verse been all my life?!: "The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations!"

From this short sentence, I learn three lessons about God, the Atonement, and His love for me:

1. Just because He knows how to deliver me from my temptations, it doesn't mean He will without some effort on my part. He only said He knows. He doesn't say how to do it. I have to be willing to ask how. And I have to be willing to listen to the answers and do the required work.
2. The word "deliver" indicates that there is a need for help. I CANNOT do it by myself.
3. Before I qualify for the Lord's help, I must first be godly.

I'm going to write this verse on my heart. I truly love the hope that comes from the sweet, sweet word of God!