Joel Beeke is a man with many hats. He is well-known as an author. conference speaker, pastor, and theological teacher. He is perhaps less well known as an employer. I caught up with him at a conference to seek his wisdom across a wide range of his spheres of Christian service.
1. As a conference speaker, how do you guard yourself against temptation while on the road?
First, I bring my dear wife Mary with me wherever I go. At my age, there is scarcely any trip far or near where I do not take her along – it is such a joy to serve the Lord together among his people in various countries.
The second rule I’ve followed throughout my life – and something that I strongly advise my theological students to practise – is that you avoid being alone with a woman other than your wife. If a woman asks for your counsel at a conference, for example, make sure that you are in a visible and public area. Even then, exercise caution and sobriety. If at all possible, have your wife join you for the impromptu counseling session; nearly every woman of good character would not mind, and would in fact greatly respect that.
Third, one of the best ways to guard against sexual temptation is to let everyone know that you love your wife like crazy. You could do so with an illustration at a conference, or you could mention her naturally (and frequently) in conversation. I love Mary with all my heart, so I like to tell people how wonderful she is – no matter where I am!
Fourth, if you have even the remotest feeling that a woman has dishonorable intentions, or makes you a bit uncomfortable with her demeanor, or is simply desiring to speak with you too often, then shut the door for any opportunities to interact. Do not give her any time or attention.
Usually, our problem is not that we fall into sin all of a sudden. Rather, we often take small steps or leave a little window open for our besetting sins; only then do we fall. The fall looks sudden to those looking from the outside, of course, but yielding to small temptations usually begins months or even years before indulging in a scandalous temptation. The smallest flirtation with a woman other than your wife is an abomination in the sight of God. It will damage your marriage, your ministry, and your soul, and it must be avoided like the plague. Put sexual sin to death at all costs (Matthew 18:9).
