"Therefore let the one who thinks he stands firm [immune to temptation, being overconfident and self-righteous], take care that he does not fall [into sin and condemnation]." 1 Corinthians 10:12 Amplified Study Bible
Yesterday, we fleetingly looked at this verse together with v13, dealing with temptation. Today, let us take a closer look at verse 12 and the consequences it holds for the person who believes that they are able to conquer sin - alone.
We've probably all met the person who repeatedly says, 'I have never sinned'. An unbelievable statement, but some really believe this. I remember someone who was adamant about this, even to the point of defending her belief in an angry manner. She has died now and I often wonder how she got on when she came face to face with Jesus. It is a dangerous thing to deny that sin has never dwelt within you. 1 John 1:10 clearly tells us, 'If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us.' Romans 3:23 states, 'for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.' It is a dangerous statement to suggest that we have never sinned.
There are other people who believe that they are standing firm in their belief in Jesus and, this is ok. However, if they become too overconfident about this, they may feel that sin could never overtake them and again, this is an unwise place to be in. We are all subject to sin and temptation can take over us at any time. This is why Peter says, 'Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.' 1 Peter 5:8. Why would Peter have said this if we didn't have to worry about sin attacking us?
Peter goes on in verse 9 to say, 'Resist him, steadfast in the faith'. Steadfast means firmly loyal, constant and immovable. Hence, 'Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labour is not in vain in the Lord'. 1 Corinthians 15:58.
The devil is very sneaky, he has the ability to creep into any situation and cause havoc. He has characteristics rather like a snake and has a deadly tongue, lies in wait ready to attack, crawls into situations and then strikes and bites. Just be very careful. He is not your friend and he will trip you up if you give him half a chance.
As long as we keep our eyes on the King of kings - Jesus Christ, we will have the victory and He will take us by the hand and ensure that we take the safer path. To go without Him, is very unwise.
Copyright 2021 Grahame Howard.
Member of the National Association of Christian Ministers
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