August 15
Neh 9:22-10:39 | PS 34:1-10 | Prov 21:13 | 1 Cor 9:19-10:13
Do we really think that we are somehow better, more enlightened than previous generations? Satan has not had to change his playbook because people keep falling for the same things over and over again. Our ability to stand has little to do with our own innate strength. Our ability to stand has to do with where, or better on Who, we choose to focus when in the midst of the trial or temptation. The Israelites after the Red Sea crossing failed because rather than looking up and seeing God in that pillar of fire or cloud, they looked in every other direction. Though the prophets of old spoke God's Word in clarity, the people failed because they ignored them and chose to tickle their ears with the advice of others. We are no different. Often failing to learn from the mistakes of others, and our own mistakes, we are bombarded daily with choices, our ability to choose right will be determined by whether or not we seek God during these situations.
We read the Bible for many reasons, but among them should be, as explained in 1 Corinthians 10:11, "Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come." We have been given examples of those who shined through the trials and those who fell in the trials. Why do we think that our outcome will be any different. Concerning our strength and the uniqueness of our situation, consider Paul's words in 10:12-13, "Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it." Paul realized this as he explained in 9:27, " But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified."
God is wonderfully forgiving, full of grace and mercy, and falling will not mean losing one's salvation. But there are earthly implications. God had positioned us in families, in congregations, among peers so that we can influence others for Jesus Christ. Being disqualified, does not mean from heaven, but from previous positions and opportunities. As outlined, the trials and temptations will come. This has been guaranteed. We need to surround ourselves constantly with God: in His Word, in prayer, in worship, in fellowship, so that when these things occur we know where to turn and Whom to seek.
Messages from Pastor Lloyd Pulley: