Bible Reading Challenge #24

1 Corinthians 10:13–15

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 ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
14 Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.
15 I speak as to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I say.

Big Points

1) Every single one of us endures temptation.
Some of you feel as though you are the only one tempted by a certain sin—but that is false. Others of you don’t feel tempted each day, but that simply reveals there are sins in your life that you’ve allowed or condoned. All of us are tempted. You are not unique.

Temptation is not a sign of failure. Temptation is part of the human condition. Our Lord and Savior Jesus was tempted in every way (Hebrews 4) and yet was without sin.

2) God is faithful.
The power of God is greater than the schemes of the enemy. Temptations will come, but sin does not have to follow. God is with us. By His Holy Spirit, we have been given power to overcome. Through Scripture, prayer, and accountability, there is strength to resist.

I have seen God give me grace and self-control in my own life to overcome what I thought was impossible. You are not hopeless!

3) Temptation is not the same as suffering.
Temptation is the opportunity to reject God’s way and choose our own way. Suffering, on the other hand, is something inflicted on us that may or may not be within our control. Suffering is not a statement of failure to resist temptation—it is the sad reality of a broken world.

4) Flee temptation.
Like Joseph in Potiphar’s house, we must flee temptation. The longer we let it linger, the more likely we are to indulge. Fleeing may include leaving a location, breaking a relationship, limiting technology, or removing enticements.

Reflection Questions

• Do you believe that you can have victory over the temptations in your life?

• Do you recognize the temptations in your life?

• Do you look to God—or to your own strength—to overcome?