It is good to remember the past, maybe not best to “dwell” on it, but to look back and remember, and let the lessons learned speak to our hearts. That’s a good thing. That is exactly what Paul is doing as he starts out this Chapter. Remember when…
I’m sure there are times in your life that are pivotal, where life’s lessons, while maybe hard, have moved you ahead to where you are today. As here, maybe it is the example of a friend or loved one and their struggle and victory that is speaking to you today. Think a moment on your own experience, and then focus on the example of Moses, it’s a history we all share.
Paul gives this to the Corinthians and us as well as an example to learn from. So what are some our takeaways? Do not put Jesus (or God) to the test. Don’t grumble. Stand strong. Flee from idols. Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God.
One of the most misinterpreted verses of the Bible falls in this passage, verse 13. Here it is: “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.” Paul is talking about “temptations” not bad things. Over the years, I’ve heard many people say, “God will never give you more than you can handle” when it comes to bad things that happen in our lives. That is NOT what this is saying. First of all, God doesn’t give us bad things. Bad things happen because there is evil in this world and we are sinful. When bad things happen, God will be there to hold and rescue us. But the promise here is rescue from temptation. God will surely show us a way out when we are tempted, we just need to be looking for it.
So, what things tempt you? For some it’s alcohol and drugs, for others pornography, for others, gossip, for others spending, or overeating. You have your own struggle. But rest in the assurance that you are not alone, that God is giving you that way out so you can endure and overcome.
Let’s pray. Lord thank you that you are looking over us and providing for us when we are tempted. There are so many false prophets in the world today trying to confuse us and draw us away from you. Help us to stand firm to their temptation and hold strong to you and your truth. You will give us the strength to say no to those temptations. Thank you for how you are moving in my life. May all I do be to your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
