1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV) — 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.

Temptation to sin is real. Everyone faces temptations at some point in their lives. Some are tempted to gossip, others anger, and many tempted by pride. Sexual sin is a battle for many people. Greed is a vice of others. The question isn’t whether we will face temptations, but which kind of temptations will be most powerful against us. Where are you vulnerable?

Our passage today is an encouragement not to lose hope in our temptations. We are not powerless. In fact, Paul speaks through the Holy Spirit to remind Christians that no temptation has overtaken us that is not common to man. Everyone faces temptation. And the good news is that God will not allow us to be tempted beyond our ability to escape it. With every temptation that comes, God will provide a way of escape. He provides an escape hatch to avoid sin. We never have to sin. There is always a way out in order to walk in obedience. 

But notice what the foundation of that escape hatch is. God’s faithfulness. This is the often-overlooked part of the text. God’s faithfulness supplies the escape hatch. He is faithful to help His people. He is our provider. The strength we need to live in holiness and obedience comes from the LORD. Our God does not leave us to ourselves or our own strength. His mighty hand faithfully leads us to the place where we can turn away from the sin and choose obedience. 

This doesn’t mean that rejecting temptation and choosing obedience will be easy. What it means is that we are not powerless. We must still walk by the Spirit if we want to avoid gratifying the flesh. We must cling to His help and power in our weakness if we want to see Him lead us out of temptation. Ask Him today to demonstrate His faithfulness to you as you go about your day and to help you live holy in all your ways. 

Reflection & Journal:

- Why is God’s faithfulness linked to our escaping temptation? What is the connection?

- What are some examples in your life where you’ve watched this play out in your own temptations?

- How can you practically find the escape hatches God is giving you when temptation comes? 

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