Sneakers aren’t always shoes

Ever wonder how or why sneakers were invented? In the late 1700s, people wore rubber-soled shoes that had no right or left foot. Crude by any standards, they prompted the U.S. Rubber Co. to make Keds, a more foot-friendly version. Since being mass-produced in 1917, sneakers have become the shoe of choice for most people today.

Sneakers today are specially made for every sport — and for fashion as well. I own two pairs. How many do you have? They’re called sneakers because they’re so quiet the wearer can easily sneak up on someone.

There are spiritual sneakers, too. Think about how sin and temptation sneak up on us. Our archenemy, the devil, knows our weaknesses. He tempts us to overeat when we’re feeling lonely, to smoke when we feel stressed, to explode in anger when we’re frustrated.

It’s wise to make ourselves aware of his silent traps. Doing so will help us stop bad habits, change our thought patterns and, ultimately, our behavior. That’s easier said than done, perhaps, but Jesus Christ is our helper. Through Him all things are possible.

One way to avoid sin and temptation is to use Scripture. Here’s a great promise from 1 Corinthians 10:13: “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”

Another way to prevent temptation from sneaking up on you is to pray. Paul, in his New Testament letters, frequently advises Christians to pray — without ceasing, with thanksgiving and with faith that God will answer our prayers.

Praise is another sneaker-beater. The Bible tells us that God inhabits our praise. He’s always happy to bless us. We can be happy to bless Him, too.

Battling a certain bad habit? Find a partner whom you can call when tempted, someone who will pray with you and offer encouragement.

Some bad habits can be broken simply by changing our routine or even friendships. For me, it’s to avoid being judgmental — and to stay away from the candy aisle, among other things. What is it for you?

Human nature, being what it is, causes us all to fail at times. But God always offers

second chances. We should never give up.

Lord, thank You for Your abounding love. May we never forget the ultimate sacrifice Your Son, Jesus, paid on our behalf that we might have victory over sin and temptation. Amen.