Helped!

Helped!

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. 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 endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV

First, it is established that temptations and trials are part of life on this side of eternity. You cannot negotiate your way out of them and you cannot determine when and how they will happen; you just get an assurance from God that they will come.

Secondly, today's extract makes this clear confirmation that there is nothing you go through that's odd or unusual. Since man fell in the Garden of Eden, he has become subject to the failings and weaknesses sin brings. As long as I am clothed in this weak human flesh, I cannot avoid the experiences that this human nature brings.

Thirdly, and most importantly, I have the assurance of God's faithfulness, which makes the experiences commensurate with my strength. It's like a qualified pharmacist, dispensing the medication needed for my ailment in the right dosage and at the right time. He works out the WHEN, the HOW and the WHAT. Everything He allows has a part and purpose to play in my life.

Additionally, God's amazing power is seen in the fact that He also provides a way of escape out of whatever experiences may come. Whether it is a word of comfort for the trouble I am in, or a word of assurance for the storms that are brewing or an assurance of His presence in times of pain and sorrow, God always comes through. The problem, as always, is whether we are ever willing to surrender to His wisdom. Do we trust Him or do we depend on our own survival instincts?

What is my default setting when tough times come: flight into my own shelter or a constant daily dependence on God? Whatever my response is, I cannot change the process, but I get to decide how it will all end. What's it going to be? His time of favour is here.