“Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, ‘The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.’ We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer. Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. 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.
“Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” 1 Corinthians 10:6-14
Hearing about another’s foibles and failures can bring a bit of satisfaction to the self-righteous who compare, even some gloating over their deserved consequences. But being told that these accounts are warnings, that we might also be so foolish, is not what most want to hear. The honesty of Scripture forms a solid foundation for understanding our sin, our sad estate, and our Savior. Its beautiful story is that while Christ finished with our sin’s penalty, our own story is not finished, and can be daily helped by knowing and applying the Word. (John 19:30)
“What then shall we say? That the law is sin? By no means! Yet if it had not been for the law, I would not have known sin. For I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, ‘You shall not covet…’ So the law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good.” Romans 7:7,12
A list of warnings and prohibitions can be a ready turn-off for any normal individual. Restrictions and requirements imposed by another chafe when any authority other than self is imposed. Many eschew the Bible as old-fashioned, restrictive, and unenlightened by modern norms. But ignorance of its contents leads to misunderstanding about its relevance and redemptive intent. The holy scriptures give instructions meant for our good, to identify sin so we might recognize and not desire evil, but rather be able to escape and endure. The truth indeed sets free. (John 8:31-32)
What keeps the flesh from resisting temptation, from saying No, from wanting help? Its very flesh-ness! But when we take seriously the consequences God metes out on rebels, and grasp how God’s Spirit convicts and helps in real time, enabling us to resist, we learn to reprogram our desires. With every way out we take, faith muscles strengthen. And muscle memory is a great thing when the next temptation arises. (John 16:8; James 4:7)
How do we view Scripture’s practical warnings? How well do we even know them? What safeguards do we have, or need, in place to guide and guard our decisions? When we have fallen, would we quickly respond to God’s mercy in humble confession? (1 John 1:9)
Father, may I take Your word seriously at all times, and apply it unto righteous living that honors You.
As the rain and snow 