“So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”
(1 Corinthians 10.12)
Due to the inclination of the flesh, human beings tend to believe that they can do everything alone, without God’s help. This is the biggest mistake, especially if we consider what 1 Corinthians 10.12 teaches us: So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!
According to this verse, whose responsibility is it to keep from falling? It’s clear to me that it’s the one who is standing. So, you and I are held accountable by God to see that we do not stumble. However, the next verse, verse thirteen, says that “no temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God
is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” In other words, God says, “I hold you accountable for watching and standing, but I want you to know that I have not abandoned or left you to chance. I offer you resources, I offer you deliverance, I offer you grace not to sin, and support so that you can fulfill your responsibility, which is your decision, but you do not have to do it alone.
The first step to fall is when we start leaning on our own understanding. This is what Proverbs 3 verses 5 to 7 warn us not to do: trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. Proverbs 9:10 states that the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Do not trust yourself more than you trust God. Submit to His will and His direction.
We shouldn’t be silly enough to think that, although we make our choices, and it surely is our responsibility, we are achieving whatever it is without God’s help, without His support. You and I need to understand that God provides resources for whatever it is. And the only thing that doesn’t change is the responsibility of our
choices.
Prayer: Dear God, help me hear your voice, always have a heart that is sincere, grateful and obedient to you so that all my choices are assertive and pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
