Temptation Allowed, Endurance Provided

Life would be so much easier as a Christian if I was not tempted to sin. We are continually bombarded with sinning opportunities and they certainly look very appealing.

“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)

I am reminded this morning, yes, you will be tempted and God allows it in our path. The part that I forget is that He will only allow that which we can handle. To us, it may seem insurmountable, but God will always give us the tools needed to overcome.

In the commentary for verse 13 in my NIV Bible the following are written regarding temptation and resistance:

• Wrong desires and temptation happen to everyone, so don’t feel you’ve been singled out
• Others have resisted temptation, and so can you
• Any temptation can be resisted because God will help you resist it
  • Recognize those people and situations that give you trouble
  • Run from anything you know is wrong
  • Choose to do only what is right
  • Pray for God’s help
  • Seek friends who love God and can offer help when you are tempted

The above are not earth shattering actions or instructions, however they do provide the reminder that we need to overcome the temptations that arise in our lives. We are not alone in our temptations and we should seek the counsel of others that can help.

I am thankful for the instruction provided by God and will continue to study God’s Word to understand more clearly what actions I should be taking. That study will provide more information and actions to overcome temptations that come my way. They will still be there and as I grow in my walk with Christ, some of them will become more powerful. But, with God’s Word on my side, no matter how big the temptation, when I am obeying His Word, I will overcome.

Where are you in your understanding of temptation? Are you struggling with how and if you can overcome? Be aware that temptation will come; God provides the endurance. Will you follow the Word of God an allow Him to provide?