SCRIPTURE
"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide a way of escape, that you may be able to endure it." (1 Corinthians 10:13).
OBSERVATION
Paul had just listed some of the temptations of the temptations the Israelites had experienced (and gave in to): sexual immorality, testing Christ and grumbling. These things, he reminds us, were written for our instruction. So, what can we learn? First, when we face temptation we are not experiencing anything new, it is "common to man." Second, God knows our limit. He won't let us be tempted beyond our ability. Every temptation we face is really below the threshold where we always have the option to flee. Third, along with the temptation comes an escape route. The way of escape is enduring the temptation, not giving in until it passes. Enduring requires effort, resistance, and relying on the strength God gives though his Spirit. It's interesting that the way of escape comes "with" the temptation. At any point along the way, one or the other (temptation or escape) can be chosen.
APPLICATION
I've read this verse many times but never picked up on the aspect of God's faithfulness that comes with temptation. He comes alongside of me to provide a way out. I just need to look for the escape route. It is easy to become focused on the temptation--that it is all-powerful, and all-consuming. Instead, in those moments, I need to look for God's faithfulness. He is there providing a way out. Will I look at the temptation, or will I look for God's faithfulness?
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your faithfulness, even in the midst of temptation. Amen.
