Helped!

Helped!

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV

The Inspiration:

The words of today's verse holds out hope for all who are God's children, and it is that I am never left alone to fend for myself. At no time does God abandon me to my own devices, but in all my experiences, the good, and the ones I call 'the bad', there is the divine presence of God that sets my heart at rest that God is on my side, rooting for me to do well, and to also end well. God is not like man, selfishly thinking of only the immediate or the short-term, but God is always looking out for ways to advance His name, presence, love and power. What better platform is there than the life of a person who reflects His glory, presence and power? What louder message is there other than a life that consistently relies on God for sustenance, help and support? Why would God not go all out to glorify Himself in a life that is totally surrendered to Him as Lord and Saviour?

The Contention:

There is nothing God allows that has not been tested and approved by Him for my good. He is like the most gifted pharmacist, lovingly applying medication for my wounds at the right time, in the right manner and in the right quantity. He knows how to nurse me to full maturity, and He will never allow the devil to overpower me, as long as I am constantly depending on Him for help. There is no experience that is strange to God, but He knows how to fit each experience into my life's journey, and to ensure that I emerge better than when I went into it. His promise is that He will not allow me to be tempted beyond what I am able to bear. This then means that if I do submit to temptation, it would mean that I took my eyes off God to consider other options. If I get the focus right, I have access to the greatest resource in the world, who is God Himself. He is all I need. 

The Conclusion:

In the temptation lies the way of escape. This would also mean that 'I had no choice' will not be a valid excuse for submitting to temptation. For Joseph, his way out was to run. For Daniel, it was a strong resolve in his heart not to compromise. For Jesus, it was a steadfast focus on God for help. For Samson, he would not flee. For Judas, the love of money was the bane of his life, As I read today's verse, what steps do I need to take, so I can place myself within the boundaries of God's help? God's nature is very consistent, and nothing catches Him by surprise. Life may throw curveballs; sometimes, the inevitable may happen, but in all, God is at work in me, so that my life can be a blessing to the world around me. It is His work IN me that will bless the world AROUND me. He is never tired, and He does not give up on anyone. Let Him do what He alone can do. God's time of favour is here.