“But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.” James 1:14

Wanting a little quiet time in the morning, I went to a familiar place on a little backwater canal. When I got there and sat on the bank, I noticed some Ibises just standing on the far end of the canal. After a while I saw them start to move along the water’s edge. And just like that…the game had begun!

As the birds waded deeper into the water, I saw its surface begin to display little splashes, followed by bigger ones…BAIT-FISH! Smaller fish, or possibly shrimp, were corralled in the end of the canal, and the birds simply had to grab them with their long beaks. UNDER the water, larger fish were drawn to the bait as they began to pluck them from below. Soon, other birds came from every direction to get their fill!

I have to admit wishing I had a fishing pole so I could join in the feast. Returning to that same spot on another occasion was a thought. But it would be useless, unless ‘the bait-fish’ joined in the visit as well! Because BAIT was the cause of the action. It was a beautiful, peaceful Florida scene for every blood carrying creature there…except for the bait-fish!

We ALL have appetites and desires. Each one of us is different though, and for whatever reason, is drawn to fulfill those desires by our own special appetites. Unfortunately, Jesus isn’t the ONLY one fishing for men. Satan is a PROFESSIONAL at it! All he had to do was simply wait, watch and take notes. But that investment paid off because, men are just as dumb as bait-fish in showing up to what baits THEM. It’s easy pickings, if you just pay a little attention.

I think of the things that I’ve fallen for over the years. As I matured, so did my desires. Enticing me seemed to become a great spot for my own flesh and satan! Having fallen into traps far too many times, I have paid dearly and often. And it is embarrassing! Because ‘I’ handed satan the bait myself.

THANK GOD for JESUS CHRIST! Need I say more than that? When sin and death were overwhelming to me, He came and did the unthinkable. HE volunteered to get swallowed up in MY place! And then offered me the peace and serenity of a life where bait just doesn’t matter! Even though I fail occasionally, it isn’t catastrophic. Now.. I just like setting and getting to know JESUS better as we fish together for MEN!