Facing the trials and temptations of your life

I Corinthians 10:13 (CEV)

You are tempted in the same way that everyone else is tempted. But God can be trusted not to let you be tempted too much, and He will show you how to escape from your temptations.  

The commonly used expression, “God never gives you more than you can handle” is based on this verse.  The context for this verse is Paul providing a history lesson about the dangers of idolatry, immorality and grumbling that caused the deaths of thousands of Israelites during the wilderness years.  In verse 12 he reminds readers that we should never let our guard down, that no matter how strong you think your faith is; if you dabble with sin, it will defeat you.  Then in verse 13 he gives these wonderful words of encouragement to readers who might be similarly tempted.    

The Greek word used for “tempted” in this passage--“peirasmos”--has several meanings.  It can mean an experiment, an attempt, a trial, an enticement to sin from outward circumstances, an internal temptation to sin, adversity, affliction, trouble, and/or a rebellion against God.  Whatever definition you wish to apply, the main message here is that everyone is tempted in the same way.  Whatever trials or enticements or adversities you face in your life right now, you are not alone.  Often it is hard to realize this when you are alone, but take comfort by faith that you are not alone in dealing with your circumstances. 

Two other great encouragements in this verse……..the truth that God can be trusted not to let you be tempted too much and the truth that God will show you a way of escape from your temptations.  Again, substitute whatever word for “tempted” best applies to your current situation and be encouraged about these three truths—you are not alone, God is with you and will give you whatever strength you need to face the temptation, and, in fact, God will show you a way out so that the temptation is removed from your life. 

A couple of applications.  You are being sexually tempted.  Realize that this kind of temptation is common to just about everyone, especially men.  But you don’t want to be like everyone else.  Trust in the Lord to help you escape this kind of temptation.  Pour through His Word and find those verses that teach how you can overcome this kind of temptation (e.g. I Cor 6:18).  Believe it and do what it says.  This is His way to provide you a way of escape. 

You are faced with lots of trouble.  You are broke.  You have lost your job.  You or a loved one is dealing with cancer or some other disease or illness.  You have a child in some kind of trouble.  Again, you are not alone.  God understands what you are going through (read and be comforted by Heb 2:18).  Cling to His promises here.  You can face these challenges, you have the strength through Him (Phil 4:13).  God is faithful to enable you to overcome these challenges.  You can escape them eventually if you trust in His way, His strength, His answers. 

Thomas Ward said that “Temptations discover what we are”.  May whatever temptations you are dealing with right now reveal to you the depth of your faith and how strong your godly character can become.