Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things 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 got up to indulge in pagan revelry.” We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did--and in one day twenty-three thousand of them died. We should not test the Lord, as some of them did--and were killed by snakes. And do not grumble, as some of them did--and were killed by the destroying angel. These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come. So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. 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 stand up under it. 1 Corinthians 10:6-13 (NIV)
Trust me, sin has never left anyone better off. That’s because all sin carries with it a death sentence – a death to something – and usually it is precious to us. It is never for our good, no matter what others may tell you. While God forgives sin in the believer in Christ Jesus, the consequences still remain – and I assure you they are not worth that bite of the apple, as tempting as it may be. Consequences are God’s way of helping us not desire the things that will cause our demise – He has so many higher and greater plans for our lives than that nonsense. Plans to prosper and not harm, plans to give us hope and a future as we seek and follow Him in truth and turn from evil. One never outgives God. It is the duty of the child of the King to go forth with great desire and diligence not to fall into temptation. A strong resolution is necessary. While sometimes temptation catches us unawares, most times we are found dabbling close to the fire, if you catch the drift. That is why we so often get burned.
We have many instructors in Scripture – Noah, David, Lot, Solomon, Asa, Peter and more – as great as these saints were – all had temptations and falls recorded for our instruction. Wouldn’t it be better for us to learn in a classroom rather than on a fieldtrip – fleeing like Joseph from the serpent who is desirous of nothing but our downfall? If great cedars could fall how much more so little pine seedlings? If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall. Don’t be overconfident. Trust in the Lord and His mighty power. He will not let you be tempted beyond what you are able to bear – it is a promise of Scripture that the door of escape will be there. Look for His way out.
“I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve.” Jeremiah 17:10 (NIV)