“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 provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
1 Corinthians 10:13
It’s comforting to know that the things I struggle with aren’t unique to just me. Paul says that everything we struggle with is shared in some way with others. You’ve never been tempted in a way that no one else has experienced. That’s a good thing! It means that you’re not alone.
Sometimes we’re able to convince ourselves that the sin and temptation that we face is too bad for Jesus to forgive. We convince ourselves that it’s worse than everyone else’s sin. We isolate ourselves. We keep it a secret. We let it fester. The truth is, that’s exactly what Satan wants. He wants us to doubt Christ’s ability to forgive us. He wants us to condemn ourselves, to keep our sin a secret, to tell ourselves we’re unlovable, unworthy, unforgivable. Why? Because that’s how he wins. The only way that Jesus won’t forgive you is if you won’t accept his forgiveness. What’s the easiest way for Satan to make that happen? To convince us that our sin is worse than everyone else’s, that we’re alone, that we can’t be forgiven.
Paul is tells us that that is NEVER the case. Any sin, any temptation in your life is a sin or temptation that other people are struggling with. You are not alone, and neither are they. That’s not to encourage the sin, but to give you help out of it. There’s always a way out. God is faithful, and he won’t turn us over to sin without the hope of escape. He won’t allow us to be trapped and given no way out. There is always a way out. There is always forgiveness.
No matter what you’re struggling with, know that you are loved, and you can be forgiven. There is no sin to big for Jesus to forgive. You’re not alone. God is faithful, and he is with you. Stay strong against temptation, and know that there is always hope.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your faithfulness. When I feel alone, remind me that you’re with me. When I feel unlovable, remind me of your love. When I feel unforgivable, remind me of the sacrifice of Jesus and the power of your grace.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
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