***overview of lesson for youth group***
Edmond finds himself suddenly in snowy woods, where just
moments before he was in a wardrobe. As he begins to gather his senses a sleigh
approaches carrying a beautiful queen.
This queen offers to care for Edmond and magically gives him what ever
he desires, which is Turkish Delight. She appeals to Edmond’s desire to be
recognized and to have his way. She offers to make him a prince and maybe even
kingship if he would do as she says and bring his siblings to her. It becomes
apparent that the Turkish Delight is enchanted and begins a evil work in
Edmond. His desire for more Turkish Delight becomes overwhelming and He is
willing to do whatever the evil witch wants.
This scene from C.S. Lewis’ “The Lion, The Witch and The
Wardrobe” gives us some lessons and truths to consider as we begin our dating
and relationship series called “Now and Later: preparing for a lifetime
commitment that glorifies God.” Though the fictional magic does not exist,
there is a “magic” to all romantic encounters. There is a draw and enticement
that is exciting and dangerous. As Edmond selfishly fulfilled his appetite for
Turkish Delight he began to die a little inside. His self-centered attitude manifests
as he becomes biting toward his sisters and almost cruel at times.
The truth is, when we pursue selfish delights apart from
God’s plan it will cost us something. The allure is enticing and enchanting. We
seek to fulfill our own selfish desires and that costs us in other areas. We
begin to pull away from healthy friendships and relationships. We think we can
hide our sins, however they build and ultimately begin to destroy us.
Dangers and Delights is the honest look at how attraction to
another person is natural. As we grow older we desire relationships to take
different forms. Too often we just follow our natural impulses and find
ourselves making mistakes. God has not left us alone to figure this out, but
has given us clear principals in the Bible to follow. We will see that as we
honor His commands He will give us more then we could have ever imagined.
“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he
will give you the desires of your heart.”
When Jesus said that He came to give us abundant life (John
10:10), he promises it in the midst of the truth that the enemy has come to
destroy life. Obeying our own selfish desires is to be caught up in a system
that leads to destruction and God has called us to so much more. Learning how
to date and pursue relationships in a way that first brings glory and honor to
Jesus is difficult at first, but get easier. It might be hard on the front end,
but it leads to relationship that has God’s blessings on it.
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