Let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. 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. Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry (1 Cor. 10:12-14).

In these verses, we learn to resist temptation by following Paul’s instruction to stand … endure … and flee. The first two instructions are about resisting the force of temptation, while the last is about removing ourselves from its influence.

At times spiritual leaders may give counsel that seems inconsistent with a strong faith. A leader may advise a struggler, “Now you listen to me. Do not take that road home from work. If you take that road, you will be tempted by a place or person beyond your strength to resist. So, take another road home.” 

Such instruction recognizes that it may take as much strength to flee some temptations as it does to endure others. Don’t let anyone mislead you; often the best way to stand for God is to flee from seductive evil. Such flight confesses our humanity and trusts God’s provision. 

Overcoming temptation by faith is not like sitting on a sofa with a box of chocolates and insisting God make them disappear. God doesn’t magically teleport us from temptation, or it from us. 

When God graciously provides his way out of temptation, take it. Have enough faith in him to flee down the path he provides for your spiritual safety. 

Prayer:
Lord, as I face temptations this week, help me to trust and take your way of escape, so that I can flee from danger to stand for you!