Strength to Endure

1 Corinthians 10:5-13

Paul is cautioning the Israelites not to forget the lessons of the past. The Israelite people were notorious for having short memories when it came to God and His provision. This was a catalyst for them to bounce back and forth between sin and begging for God to save them. As a church, I fear we may have fallen into a similar pattern. Paul is calling us to remember the lessons the Israelites learned about God so we can avoid the same errors. God never said that the temptations we would face would easy, but He did say He would give us an exit ramp so we could endure it. The question remains whether or not we will look for it.

Questions for further thought:
1. In what ways has God provided an “exit ramp” when you are faced with a temptation to sin?

2. Do you remember a time when you didn’t take the off ramp that God was offering? What was the result?

Challenge: 
For the next month or so, keep an eye out for the “exit ramps” that God will provide in tempting situations. It could come via other people or a simple desire to pray and let the temptation pass.