1 Corinthians 10:1-13

Be Still: Father, thank you for your breath in my lungs. I praise you today. Holy Spirit breathe your life in me as I read your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Read: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. 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 endure it. (v 13)

Encounter: Worship is about what we set our hearts on. What we desire and love. Where we position and aim our hearts. If we don’t set them on Jesus, we don’t stop worshipping (because we were made to worship), but we exchange God for an idol. Paul reminds the Corinthians of some of Israel’s history as a warning, 'to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things' (v 6). Verse 13 of our passage speaks of the constant temptation to turn away from Jesus and Paul gives us three points to help us understand temptation:

1. Temptation is common to all people. Everyone faces it and it’s not a sin to be tempted. Hebrews 4:15 tells us that Jesus was tempted in every way, yet he didn’t sin. We hold on to the fact that he understands, and he overcame! 

2. God won’t let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. I find it helpful to pray the Lord’s prayer every day -- 'lead us not into temptation' -- and to own the fact that I’m not strong enough to bear temptation.

3. But if we are tempted, the promise is that God is faithful, and he will deliver us! Holding onto the Word of God (the sword of the Spirit) is essential here. We need to set our hearts on him. 

Apply: Imagine your heart with a dial. Where has it been turned (even slightly) away from Jesus? Where do you feel most tempted to turn the dial? Wherever you’re at, set your heart again fully on Jesus. He is the only one who is worthy. This is why moments of worship, whether corporate or private, are so important. They help us put all our attention back on him. All our affection back on him. All our worship back on him. I find that I have to do this hour by hour and moment by moment. Keep re-setting your heart. 

Devote: Lord lead me not into temptation but deliver me from evil. Where my heart is easily swayed, help me to stand firm and to set my heart on you alone.