Symbol: Bridges
and Dams
Lesson: Don’t
say, “I am strong enough” to withstand temptation while intentionally exposing yourself
to it.
Illustration:
A bridge,
that served vehicle traffic 40 years, suddenly collapses killing 13 and
injuring many others. Although strong and effective for decades it finally succumb
to a design flaw. A dam
which served well for over 50 years gives way after heavy rains. Although
providing decades of faithful service, being overwhelmed by assaulting
elements (in one case) and finally demonstrating flaws in design in the other
case, both these icons of strength gave way. Lesson: Never say “I am strong
enough” to withstand the moral onslaught of Satan’s world. Although we may
indeed stand strong for a long time, if we keep intentionally exposing ourselves to the temptations
of Satan’s “elementary
things of this world,” just as the rains overran the dam and the design flaws of the bridge gave way, the weaknesses
of our imperfect flesh and the flood of Satan's enticements will eventually take their toll on our relationship with Jehovah and we may find our faith catastrophically wrecked.
Notes: N/A
