I’ve heard of teachers making an example out of a student
who got out of line. The punishment was swift and severe and was meant to serve
as a warning to whole class. That may or may not seem fair, but people often
serve as examples of what can happen when we make wrong choices. Stated more
theologically: We can often see the result of sin in the bad things that happen
to people.
Paul says that, when the Israelites wandered in the
desert, their disobedience, along with the consequences of that disobedience,
serve as an example we want to avoid in our own lives. He specifically points
out idolatry, sexual immorality, drunkenness, and grumbling against God (which
is really judging God) in his warning.
He calls us to humility as we trust in Jesus for our
salvation and reminds us of God’s faithfulness in the face of temptation.
We should notice that he says that the temptations that
overtake people are not uncommon. People are people and we often fail the same
ways others fail. We can learn from the mistakes of others, however, become
aware of our weaknesses, and call upon the Lord to help us when we face
temptation.
When do you feel especially tempted? What temptation do
you give in to more often than you care to admit? Can you pray about that?
Lord Jesus, your
apostle, Paul, teaches us that we get tempted, and we can see examples of what
happens when people fall into temptation. Thank you for showing us that we can
learn from others’ mistakes, and that your mercy extends to us even in the
midst of temptation. Please forgive us for the many times we have given in to
our sinful desires. Help us to grow and mature in faith so that we will be
humble, trusting in you, and, in your power, overcome the temptations that
torment us. Amen.
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