A thought for today and every day.
1 Corinthians 10:10 is our highlighted verse in Chapter 10. “Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer” (KJV). “nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer” (ESV).
When tempted to complain, look for the way out, the way of escape, because God promises there is one. 1 Cor. 10:13
When we complain, grumble, and whine—through our words—what we are actually doing is giving strength to demons and the devil. The destroyer will use it to destroy us.
When I was a kid I remember my mother saying, “Watch your mouth!” The rebuke came like a whip after something evil left my mouth, probably a lie. I lied a lot I′m ashamed to say.
Have you ever had your mouth washed out with soap? That was a common method of discipline back then. It was a physical deterrent for lying, though I wish the Bible was used to instruct me too. Knowing the WHY behind a rebuke empowers the correction. “Because I said so.” spoken by a parent leads us only to believe that the parent is the ultimate authority. That is simply not true. Almighty God is the Ultimate Authority.
In Chapter 10 of First Corinthians, Paul teaches us the Israelite experiences were examples, documented for instruction to us, those living at the end of the age. (1 Cor. 10:11) Our Heavenly Father disciplines us. He cautions us too in verse 12, “Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.” For those who may not understand, anyone includes you and me.
Here′s a list of things to avoid:
- desiring evil
- idolatry
- sexual immorality
- putting Christ to the test
- grumbling
- thinking that you stand.
We have a wonderful promise in verse 13 (ESV), “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.” Look at this love! You are not singled out with a temptation. We can recognize, “I′m not alone here. Others have been tempted by this too.” God is not the tempter either! We’re told God is faithful. In his faithfulness He sets boundaries; He knows our ability. He also provides for us; He provides a way of escape. So when we′re tempted, look for the way out. It′s always there. When you find it, take it, and take it quickly—FLEE.
I′m skipping a lot in here; it’s very important information though. Go read 1 Corinthians 10 for yourself; the Holy Spirit will instruct you.
Replace the grumbling with thanksgiving. Stop empowering demons and the devil by complaining. Empower God’s angels instead by glorifying God. Praise and Worship Him, look for the good, the way of escape.
When my daughter was very young, I created a song to help us overcome this issue.
At the end of Paul’s teaching in 1 Cor. 10, he summarizes the instruction with this, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.”
Salvation, through Christ alone, is the ultimate goal.