Summer 1994

PREFACE

By: Michael Tao

When the hot season is approaching, many people will plan trips for their holidays. To take a break from the tension of daily life is necessary, Jesusd had to leave the multitudes, sometimes even his disciples behind, so that He could refresh Himself. His way of doing this was always turning to His father to renew his physical and spiritual strength.

It is important for us to understand that vacation is not a time that we so relax ourselves and have fun that we put God in the second place. We should not allow our vacation to stop us from worshipping God. Plan your vacation within your budget, we should not use our offering for our vacation. Always search for a Bible-believing churh to attend, if you are in a new place.

The world follows "eye-opening" experiences, but there are places that a Christian should not go to. For example, Las Vegas is not a godly place for any God's children to be there. Some may think it really does not matter, as long as we exercise self-control. However, the Bible teaches to flee from the sin and temptations ( 1 Corinthians 6:18, 10:14, 1 Timothy 6:11, 2 Timothy 2:22). The Bible does not teach us to go to the temptation deliberately, and hope that God will intervene. The truth of First Corinthians 10:13 is when the temptation takes us by surprise, then God will faithfully and mercifully open a way for us to walk through the temptation.

Very often I find it difficult to be in a swimming area, beach, or lake. It is impossible for any human being not to look at those half-naked bodies lustfully. Why do I want to open my heart gate into this temptation? Why do I want people to look at my family members with lustful eyes? Many so-called resort areas have becomes so unhealthy for Christians to be there.

The Bible teaches us to "keep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life (Proverbs 4:23)", which is to be done at all times, in all places, with everything on the face of this earth.