On Temptation

Several things struck me in a recent study of 1 Corinthians 10:1-14. I’ll highlight two of them here.

For one, the sins Paul lists (idolatry, sexual immorality, testing God, and grumbling) don’t seem to fit in the same category. Grumbling in particular looks out of place next to an “enormous” offense like idolatry. But perhaps seeing things this way reveals how I (we?) have adopted the world’s and not the Bible’s values. Grumbling, at root, is a way of heaping scorn on the power, wisdom, and love of God—it’s a gesture of “unfaith” and rebellion. Speaking words of defiance against the God who made us and reigns over all things is spiritual high treason. So if you’re in the habit of finding fault, don’t say “That’s just the way I am.” Call on the Lord to forgive you and change your heart!

Secondly, let me offer some steps to take to resist sexual temptation:

· First, agree with the Bible that sexual sin is wrong. This is a big step in a culture that has turned sexual stimulation into a form of casual recreation.

· Admit that you are tempted (pretending to be unaffected, to be “above” such things, only makes matters worse; it cuts you off from those who can encourage you when temptation hits).

· Have a few close Christian friends who will meddle in your personal life and ask you if you’re honoring God with your eyes and your sexuality (and do the same for them).

· Stay away from known danger. Be honest with yourself—you know the places and situations where temptations are especially strong. Run from these hazards (10:14).

· Be especially stringent with yourself when you’re alone. Don’t fall for the lie that “no one is watching.” The Lord sees!