Be able to stand your ground.
—Ephesians 6:13
When hurricane season approaches in my neck of the woods, billboards scream, “Be Prepared.” Citizens are urged to do two things: 1) prepare a kit of essential supplies; 2) plan a route and destination in case of forced evacuation.
The Bible emphasizes the importance of preparing for crises. Decide in advance what you will do when temptation attacks. Joseph was able to resist Mrs. Potiphar’s seduction because he had decided beforehand that he would not cave in to sin.
Legendary basketball coach John Wooden said, “When opportunity comes, it’s too late to prepare!” The same is true of temptation. Jesus said, “Temptations to sin are sure to come” (Lk 17:1). Decide now what you will do then. The heat of the moment is not the time to prepare an escape plan.
Know the destination before buying the ticket.