The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

1 Corinthians 10:13-14, “No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it.

14 Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.

How often have you thought of your troubles as being an example to others? Troubles occur every day. Automobile accidents occur because drivers are driving too fast. People die from falling while taking a selfie at the edge of a steep cliff. Others get into fights that end up in death because they visited bars and drank alcohol –the mix that doesn’t prove advantageous to anyone. Okay, I hope you don’t engage in such devilry, because such things are examples that are noticed by others. “Am I my brother’s keeper?” you ask.

You sure are!

Temptation, reduced to its lowest common denominator, is simply a “solicitation to do evil.” In verses 1-12 in the passage above, Paul rehearses for us the sins of Israel after the LORD God delivered the people from the shackles of Egypt. Then, as he warns us not to engage in sin, he reveals that Israel’s punishment serves as an example for us. Twice he says that (10:6 & 11); that means it’s important!

“I know what’s right,” you say, “but I just can’t help it. I don’t have the strength to resist temptation.” You didn’t read the key verses for today. You don’t have the right to say that. Go back to the top and re-read verses 13 and 14. Everyone on Earth and in every generation has the same temptations that you and I have. We’re no different from others. BUT, with us, as opposed to those who are not saved, all temptations are resistable! God is faithful to those who are faithful to Him, to those who are His by being “born again.”

Yes, there is a way of escape – an exit from the claws of the devil! Remember that verse: “If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Rom. 8:31). James also says, “Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (Jas. 4:7). But, don’t forget: someone is watching how you respond to temptation. You’re more visible and more vulnerable than you know. And since God has provided an escape hatch, you have no excuse to ignore it.

May the LORD give you an understanding of His Word and His grace!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

United States of America

“We never know that God is all we need

until He becomes all that we have.”