We focus on a reality that all Christians have to face and which most dread – temptation. Our text is 1 Corinthians 10:13:
“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your strength, but with the temptation will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” (RSV)
This text, when probed carefully, provides a realistic/reassuring perspective on temptation that every Christian needs to know and remember. No matter how young or old you are as a Christian, one thing is sure, you will always face temptation; the pull toward that which is sinful or not appropriate.
Some Christians think that in temptation God leaves us to the wiles of the devil to fend for ourselves. If that is how you have been thinking then you will find this passage revolutionary and refreshing.
First of all the passage suggests that in temptation there is a power that restrains. The text begins by saying that whatever temptation you face other believers are facing the sam, the text further suggests that God’s power restrains all temptations that come to you.
The text says: ‘God will not allow you to be tempted beyond your strength’! That is great news if you believe God’s Word. This statement assures you, personally, that God scales down every temptation that the devil would want to bring to you and ensures that every temptation that comes to you is less than your strength in Christ. Whatever God allows you to face in terms of temptation then, will always be a temptation that you can overcome because God has already scaled down the temptation. Take courage then, in temptation, because there is a power that restrains.
Now here is a thought that I hope will thrill you. If it is true that God’s power restrains every temptation coming to you, then do you realise that in every temptation God is paying you a spiritual compliment? What is happening in effect is that God is saying, “My child, I have allowed this temptation because I have confidence that you can overcome it.” The rougher or stronger the temptation, then the greater the spiritual compliment from God. That’s a revolutionary coping and conquering approach to temptation which I hope will affect your mind and your life.
Do not worry then, God will not allow you to face a temptation that is really designed for me nor will I get a temptation that is designed for you. No. Father is faithful and will allow to each one of us only that which each of us can conquer. In temptation there is a power that restrains.
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