“Now these things
happened unto them [the Israelites] by way of example; and they were written
for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages are come. Wherefore let him
that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. There hath no temptation
taken you but such as man can bear [or "as is common to man"]: but
God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able;
but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able
to endure it. Wherefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” (1 Corinthians 10:11-14
ASV)
The Israelites thought they could stand, so much so that
they disregarded the Word of God, fell into sin, and reaped the painful
consequences.
Nor must I begin to think that I can stand on my own two
feet. Instead, my standing requires the hand of my Lord. So that I will not
begin to think that I am in control, He sends me reality-checks - temptations -
to show me my utter need of Him.
These teach me that I am not an independent operator, but am
a needy dependent, but also a beloved partner in holy relationship.
I cannot even see the answers to my dilemmas apart from my
Lover, blinded, as I am by my many limitations. However, He reveals a
way-of-escape for me before the my burdens crush me.
It is an escape route that allows me to navigate away from
the tempting, beckoning arms of sin and idolatry, a path He illuminates
through the darkness of revenge and unforgiveness.
The humble do not disregard the lessons of the past. They
know that they too are not in control and are vulnerable and must depend
prayerfully on the guidance of our Lord at every turn.
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