The Big "T"

THE BIG “T”

“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man;but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way to escape, that you may be able to bear it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)

We all do battle with temptation. Some seem to battle with it more often than others. The good news is that we don't have to battle it alone. The next two days we will talk about temptation from God's perspective.

Pastor Bill Raws addressed the subject of temptation in his devotional of September 21, 2010 in REAL VICTORY FOR REAL LIFE:

One of the facts of life is that the Christian is not exempt from temptation. As our theme verse declares, it “is common to man.” It is the type of testing promoted by the devil and is never generated by God. It always centers in the realm of humanity. The fact that it “overtakes” us indicates that this form of testing comes from outside and is designed to cause us to sin.

If and when a temptation overtakes us, how can we possibly overcome it? The answer is found in several factual statements. First, on the basis of the character of God – He is faithful. This truth is a recurring theme throughout the scripture. Second, on the basis of the limits placed by the Lord – “who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able.” One of our problems, however, is that we think that we alone can determine where our ability terminates. We tend to give in before that point is reached. Third, on the basis of His provision, He “will also make the way of escape.” It should be pointed out that there is a particular way of escape from each temptation. Our problems result from failing to take the way out.

Jesus demonstrated the way of victory over temptation when He used the scripture to combat the suggestions of the devil. His repeated answer to Satan’s appeal was, “It is written” (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10). Among the biblical instructions concerning dealing with temptation, some are very direct and explicit, e.g. “Flee sexual immorality” (1 Corinthians 6:18). God’s provision for victory can also be seen in the armor of the soldier of Christ (Ephesians 6:10-17). In order for believers to stand against the schemes and darts of the devil, the complete armor must be put on. Failure to utilize that which God has provided is a guarantee of defeat. William A. Raws

If you haven't already done so, commit 1 Corinthians 10:13 to memory. Use it on a daily basis as a reminder of God's faithfulness. -- Bill Welte if President and CEO of America's KESWICK

Digging Deeper: Proverbs 21; Ecclesiastes 7-9; 2 Corinthians 13

Dig This Quote: Many say they have no peace nor rest, but so many crosses and trials, afflictions and sorrows, that they know not how they shall ever get through them. Now he who in truth will perceive and take note, perceiveth clearly that true peace and rest lie not in outward things. There liveth no man on earth who may always have rest and peace without troubles and crosses. Wherefore yield thyself willingly to them, and seek only that true peace of the heart, which none can take away from thee, that thou mayest overcome all assaults. Theologia Germanica

Determined Digging: Level 1: Nahum 1:7; Level 2: Psalm 139:13-16

Determined Praying: The man who mobilizes the Christian church to pray will make the greatest contribution to world history. -- Andrew Murray