There isn’t any temptation that you have experienced which is unusual for humans. God, who faithfully keeps his promises, will not allow you to be tempted beyond your power to resist. But when you are tempted, he will also give you the ability to endure the temptation as your way of escape. (1 Corinthians 10:13, GW)

Every believer faces moments when the weight of temptation feels unique, as though no one else could understand. Yet, Scripture provides a comforting reality: our battles are not just happening to us, nor are they insurmountable.

Here's what I mean:

1. Your temptation isn't special: Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:13, "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind." Your struggles, however daunting, are shared experiences among believers.

2. God has a way out: In the very same verse, Paul assures us that with every temptation, God provides a route of escape. It's His promise to you, ensuring that you are never cornered by your struggles.

3. You can take it: God doesn't merely show you the exit; He strengthens your spirit to endure it. Your endurance is a testament to His empowering presence within you.

But, wait—there's more!

The author of Hebrews tells us about help we have from Jesus.

1. Jesus was tempted: Hebrews 2:17-18 declares that Jesus was "fully human in every way" and "suffered when he was tempted." The One who can save you from temptation walked the very paths you walk, and confronted the same trials, yet without sinning.

2. Jesus is sympathetic: This experience makes Jesus uniquely qualified to understand your battles. He isn't a distant, out-of-touch God who has no idea what you're experiencing. No. He's a sympathetic Savior who has tasted the bitterness of human trials...YOUR trials.

3. Jesus is your helper: The result of Jesus' earthly experience (being tempted + not sinning + dying on the cross + rising from the dead) is that "he is able to help those who are being tempted." Your Savior doesn't merely observe; He actively assists, guiding you through the turbulent waters of temptation.

As the Psalmist wrote in Psalm 34:17, "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles."

So what should you do?

Ask the Savior to help you; comfort, strengthen and keep you. He is willing to aid you; He will carry you through.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, in my moments of trial, help me remember that I am not alone. You understand my struggles, having faced them yourself. Equip me to see the paths of escape you provide and grant me the strength to endure. I take comfort in your sympathy and lean on you for help in my times of temptation. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does understanding the shared nature of temptations shape your perspective on personal trials?

2. Recall a time when you clearly saw God provide an exit during temptation. How did you respond?

3. Reflecting on Jesus' own experiences with temptation, how can this deepen your relationship with Him and reliance on His assistance?

Hymn: Yield Not to Temptation

Watch Sunday's Message: Yield Not to Temptation

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