God is Faithful

 DAILY READING

1 Corinthians 10: 6-13

DEVOTION / REFLECTION

Stand Firm

by Tom Richards

One of the blessings of the Gospel is the freedom we have in Christ. Prior to Jesus the Jews were burdened by a large number of rules, regulations, and sacrifices that they were obligated to uphold to be in good standing with God. Jesus changed all of that, meeting the full requirement of the law through his suffering, death, and resurrection to new life. No longer were the Jews (or Gentiles – us) slaves to the burden of requirements that could not be met. In Galatians 5:1 Paul addresses this: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”

Yet in today’s reading Paul gives us some “do nots”.

Do not be idolaters, likely referring to the Jews worship of the golden calf when Moses met with God on Mt. Sinai.

Do not commit sexual immorality, likely referring to the Jews worshipping Baal of Peor, which involved sexual immorality with Moabite women.

Do not test the Lord, likely referring to several passages in the Old Testament where the Jews showed a lack of faithfulness and followed their own desires instead of the clear direction of God.

Do not grumble, likely referring to Numbers 16:11 where some rebellious Jews challenged the leadership of Moses and Aaron who God had chosen for that purpose.

Why would Paul give the people (us) this guidance? In verses 11-13 we learn why God gives these (and other) “do nots” in scripture. He wants us to avoid things (sin) that could impact our walk with him. “12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” We have freedom, yes. We have a loving Father who says “do not” to things that will bring harm to ourselves and others. And… we have a loving Father who is faithful; “he will not let you be tempted[d] beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted,[e] he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” Amen!