DAILY DEVOTIONAL FROM PASTOR WESLEY September 5, 2022
Limits on Temptation
Now these things happened as examples for us, so that we would not crave evil things as they also craved. Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written, THE PEOPLE SAT DOWN TO EAT AND DRINK, AND STOOD UP TO PLAY." Nor let us act immorally, as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in one day. Nor let us try the Lord, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the serpents. Nor grumble, as some of them did, and were destroyed by the destroyer. Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come. Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall. No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:6-13
Despite what we may feel, Christians aren’t powerless against temptation. Nor are we alone in this struggle—it is common to the human experience. Even Jesus was tempted—but unlike everyone else, He never sinned (Hebrews 4:15). Since our Savior understands our struggle, we can approach Him for help in every temptation.
Christ’s help comes in a variety of ways. First, we can learn a positive lesson from how He used scriptural truths to refute Satan’s lies (Matthew 4:1-11). Next, we can also be instructed by the negative example of the Israelites, who “crave[d] evil things” and suffered the consequences (1 Corinthians 10:6). The Bible admonishes us not to become complacent and think we couldn’t possibly fall when tempted by either Satan or the world (1 Corinthians 10:12). Lastly, it’s encouraging to know God has put limits on the temptations He allows to come our way (1 Corinthians 10:13). Consider what this promise reveals about Him:
He is faithful. As our loving Father, He watches over us. He knows exactly what allurements we face and provides a way for us to be victorious.
He is powerful. Satan does not have free rein to attack and tempt us. Every enticement that comes our way is controlled by the Lord, who will not let us be tempted beyond what we are able to bear.
He is sufficient. He provides a way of escape—often through His Word, His Spirit, and prayer-—so we can endure the temptation without falling.
Whenever you’re tempted and feel as if you can’t resist, remember whose you are, what He has promised, and what He’s provided for your victory.
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