"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."
1 Corinthians 10:13
Anyone ever heard that one before? I know I did...and it may raise a few questions - especially for the new believer. For instance - who tempts us - God or the Devil? Quick answer - James 1:13-14. A resounding NO, God does not tempt us. But keep in mind, that's no excuse to say "the devil made me do it". WE have our own choices to make whenever we are tempted by the devil. We're all going to be tempted, "it's common to mankind". Jesus was also tempted, so He's not surprised when we are. We should expect it (the verse says "WHEN you are tempted", not IF)...and therefore we should be prepared for it.
God is faithful. I have experienced this so many times, in many different ways. The foundation for understanding God's faithfulness has always been grounded in my trust for Him. This is based on my knowledge of the Scriptures (or desperately seeking wisdom and guidance there when I need immediate help), and is reliant on the closeness of my relationship with Him. When I am tempted - the memory verse above is a strong foundation to put your trust in. But when I was in the midst of temptation - I needed to know HOW would He provide a way out. In His faithfulness, and in my desperation, I found another verse - "Flee from the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." 2 Timothy 2:22. My way out was to flee and to pursue. God provided a way out - but it was still up to me. I had to go my way or the Most High way.
There are so many helpful scripture verses, if you're looking for wisdom, strength, and hope. Search for them, write them down, hold onto His word tightly...and He will be there ready when you need Him. Here are some examples that I've drawn strength from, sometimes in my immediate time of need - and others in preparation for temptations to come. Please feel free to share yours in the comments!
Matthew 7:13-14 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow is the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Wisdom!)
Philippians 4:12-13 "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned to be content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. (Strength to do His will)
Romans 15:13 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" (catch that - hope through His power!)
God is faithful. I have experienced this so many times, in many different ways. The foundation for understanding God's faithfulness has always been grounded in my trust for Him. This is based on my knowledge of the Scriptures (or desperately seeking wisdom and guidance there when I need immediate help), and is reliant on the closeness of my relationship with Him. When I am tempted - the memory verse above is a strong foundation to put your trust in. But when I was in the midst of temptation - I needed to know HOW would He provide a way out. In His faithfulness, and in my desperation, I found another verse - "Flee from the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." 2 Timothy 2:22. My way out was to flee and to pursue. God provided a way out - but it was still up to me. I had to go my way or the Most High way.
There are so many helpful scripture verses, if you're looking for wisdom, strength, and hope. Search for them, write them down, hold onto His word tightly...and He will be there ready when you need Him. Here are some examples that I've drawn strength from, sometimes in my immediate time of need - and others in preparation for temptations to come. Please feel free to share yours in the comments!
Matthew 7:13-14 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow is the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." (Wisdom!)
Philippians 4:12-13 "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned to be content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. (Strength to do His will)
Romans 15:13 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" (catch that - hope through His power!)
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