When studying God’s Word, I, like I am sure most of you, focus on the actions we should take and forget the examples of what not to do. This morning I read in 1 Corinthians 10 and the title of the passage is:
Warning Against Idolatry (ESV)
Warnings From Israel’s History (NIV)
Either version you read, the message is the same, warnings of what not to do.
I also seem to recall a set of items that give us instruction into how to follow God, I am sure you have heard of them: THE TEN COMMANDMENTS. Nine of the ten are what not to do.
What NOT to do, what a concept. I have difficulty with understanding why folks do not follow rules and are constantly looking for ways to go around the law to accomplish their desires. We have been told not to, but we continue to ignore the warnings of the consequences. We are somehow “above” being held accountable for our actions. Paul gives us the reminder of the consequences of the actions that were against God, and then;
“11Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come.” – 1 Corinthians 10:11 (ESV)
Look at those words; “written down for our instruction”. We are to remember the consequences and heed the warnings against the actions that lead to those consequences.
God knows that this world is not easy and that being a child of God is doubly difficult. Paul’s encouragement is here as well;
“13No 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 the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” – 1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV)
We are man and we will have difficulty, however God will not allow us to be there without instruction. He has provided us the needed instruction; whether it is what TO do or NOT to do.
Are you heeding the warnings and instructions? All of them? What examples are you putting at the forefront, what TO do as well as what NOT to do?
Trevor's Thoughts 