Wednesday, January 19, 2011

God Will Provide a Way Out

Out of all of the verses in the bible, when the same scripture is part of a lesson twice within two weeks it makes one think God might be trying to make a point. That happened to me this week. I'd like to share that scripture with you. 

1 Corinthians 10:13  
No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. 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 stand up under it.

 I first read this scripture in my youth sunday school class, which was fun, because we put motions to it so that it was easier to memorize. It helped, and the memorized scripture has stuck in my head. I've been told that we should "Hide God's Word in our heart." What better scripture to memorize than one that reminds us that we can beat temptation? This memorized scripture can be a source of strength for us when faced with alluring sin.

In devotions today at work, I heard this scripture used for the second time. This time it included verse 12 as well.

1 Corinthians 10:12
So if you think you are standing, watch out that you do not fall.

The devotional lesson by David C. McCasland reminds us not only to point out that all people sin when we have faltered, but to remember that we too are guilty of sin when others misstep. The common response to the sins of public officials is simply to shake our heads. However, McCasland suggests a better response would be to admit that we too are capable of sin, and then bow "in prayer for the one who has fallen and the one who thinks he stands."

Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. -Proverbs 16:18


Casting Crowns sing a song called Slow Fade. The lyrics really pertain to these scriptures. Here are some of the verses.

It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day

The journey from your mind to your hands
Is shorter than you're thinking
Be careful if you think you stand
You just might be sinking

2 comments:

  1. might you share the motions you used to memorize that verse?

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  2. Sure. For the first line, the class held up signs that said 'temptation', indicating it is "common to man." Then we took the signs and pushed on the student's shoulders to help him remember that it is tough but he would not be tempted "beyond what he can bear." Then he was to stand up to help him remember even though temptation is pushing him down "God will provide a way out so that you can stand up underneath it."

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