“No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. 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 stand up under it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Usually, when I quote from the Bible, I use the King James Version (KJV), but I came across this translation yesterday as I was beginning to write my Life Thought. It is from the New International Version and when I compared it to the KJV, I just thought it really portrayed an encouraging message from God in a way everyone can relate to.

The blessing from God is actually two-fold. Not only will He not give you more than you can bear, but will give you the strength and the means to stay out of trouble.

But there is a distinction to be made — the verse does not say when you get yourself into trouble, He will get you out. It says “when you are tempted,” He will help you get past it.

We are always going to be tempted: tempted to lie, to gossip, to ... well ... sin. For each of us, there are some sins that are harder to break away from than others. I’ve often said how essential it is to keep the lines of communication with God open and this is one of the most important reasons why. In order for Him to help us battle the constant temptations that surround us everyday, we need to ask Him to help. But, more importantly, we have to decide we want Him to help.

“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” (Mark 14:38)

Every day we should be committed to becoming a better “us,” a better Christian. Every day we should ask Him to intercede for us for what He knows to be our weaknesses. But it is also up to us to be on our guard against sin. I can’t imagine beginning a day without talking with Him, thanking Him for another day and asking for His guidance and help through it — not just for me, but for my family, friends and co-workers.

The other point I want to make is this: A lot of times people will say that God is testing them when they are under duress or temptation. I am here to say it is not God, it is the devil.

“When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed.” (James 1:13-14)

So, arm yourselves each day with prayer and the knowledge thatGod will not send you into trouble, but steer you away from it. If you want Him to.