Friday, July 29, 2005

A Winning Strategy

1 Corinthians 10:1-13

"So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! 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." (v. 12-13)


There are many differences that can be found between a man and a woman. It is said that the typical women would like to talk out their problems in hopes to find a solution. They would talk to others about their problems as they work through them. Men on the other hand prefers to keep it to themselves. They would ponder their problem and attempt to find a solution. It is only when they discovered the solution would they begin to discuss it with others. This is one of the reasons why a man would get into a trouble with a woman for not being open. It is why some of us men get into trouble for not stopping to get directions when we are lost.


Although this may be a general truth between men and women, I believe we all have some things in our lives where we are determined to solve the problem ourself and not be willing to ask for help. Unfortunately, these decisions all have consequences.


Temptations are areas in our lives where we can have severe consequences if we are not careful. Most of us fall into the temptation and sin usually for two reasons: 1) we were overconfident in ourselves; and/or 2) we we did not seek help.


Overconfidence can be dangerous because it usually leads to carelessness. We should indeed have faith that we can overcome, but it is only through the strength of the Lord. It is when we accept His Spirit in us and be strengthened when we can have the confidence of overcoming temptations. However, our faith in Him, also means that we need to be careful. There are times when it is best to flee from temptation to avoid sin.


In 1 Corinthians 10:12-13 we are given hope that God will never allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear and that He will provide us a way out. We are reminded of us many times to give us hope. However, we often times forget the key point. We will not be tempted beyond what we cannot bear, not that we can solve it on our own. In fact, it is emphasized in the next sentence that He will provide us a way out. In other words, we must be dependent on Him. We need to pray to God, trust in Him, and be still to hear Him. It is through Him when we can overcome temptation.


Let us therefore fix our eyes on Him, and when the waves come not worry because our strength comes from the Lord and He will protect us and keep us from harms way.

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