12 Observations from I Corinthians 10:13

“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it” (I Corinthians 10:13).

1. Everyone is tempted. Even Jesus was tempted. You cannot escape temptation.

2. To be tempted is not the same as choosing to sin.

3. Our experiences of being tempted can help equip others who are tempted in the same manner.

4. No one can say, “I can’t do it.”

5. “The devil made me do it” cannot be reconciled with this verse. Every sin is “on us.” Blame-shifting is a foolish practice.

6. No one is unique in their temptations. There has been at least one person – and more likely, a plethora – of people who have endured temptations like us.

7. There may be unique features to a temptation, but there are no unique problems.

8. To be tempted is human. This side of heaven, temptations will regularly come.

9. Overcoming sin is ALWAYS possible. Every temptation has a path to obedience.

10. Being defeated by sin is ALWAYS possible. Every temptation has a path to disobedience.

11. God is the only source of security we have when facing temptation.

12. God’s plan for us is not to remove our temptations but to help us survive them.