God's Way of Escape

1 Corinthians 10:12-13

I once read about an interesting feature of a World War 2 Army tank. There was an escape hatch underneath the driver’s seat. In case of an enemy attack, you simply pulled a lever, the hatch would drop, and hopefully you might escape with your life. In today’s verses the apostle Paul talks about an escape route—not from an army tank, but from a far greater danger: the danger of temptation. Says Paul, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to us all. And God is faithful … When you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” Joseph ran away from his master’s wife when he was tempted (Genesis 39:11-12). An open door was his escape hatch. David could have looked away or walked away when he saw Bathsheba bathing (2 Samuel 11:1-5). Peter could have refused to be intimidated when he denied his Lord (Matthew 26:69-75). In the power of the Holy Spirit, we have the strength to stand firm. We can say no, run for our lives, or refuse to give in. God is faithful. He always provides a way of escape. It’s up to us to use the escape hatch God promises to provide! It’s always available. Will you use it?

Questions for further thought:
1. In what ways have I found victory in resisting temptation?
2. With whom can I share those victories and my ongoing struggles? 

Challenge: Read Matthew 4:1-11 to see how Jesus dealt with temptation from Satan. It gives a blueprint on how to respond in those times of struggle.