JAN 18

1 Corinthians 10:1-11
Memorise 1 Corinthians 10:11
“Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples…”

Today’s text narrates some examples of faithless people during the time of the wilderness wanderings when the children of Israel left Egypt. Having been delivered out of their bondage in Egypt, under the cruel Pharaoh who made them to be slaves, they had tasted the mercy and goodness of the Lord. They knew that the Lord had done good and marvellous things for them. They were provided with water and manna from heaven. Yet they sinned against the Lord. Their hearts showed unbelief. They were never really able to shake off the idolatrous influences that they had from their years in Egypt, as seen in their making of the golden calf at the foot of Mt. Sinai while waiting for Moses to come down. Not only did they worship idols but they also committed sexual sins as they “eat and drink, and rose to play” (Exo 32:6). For that, God punished them. Twenty three thousand died that day. Subsequently they went on to murmur and complain every time they faced difficulties and problems, and continually sinned against God.

So what can we learn from all these incidents? 1 Corinthians 10:1-11 tells us clearly that “these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things”, and not be idolaters, fornicators, people who tempt Christ, murmurers, and were all “written for our admonition”. When we read of all these accounts of sin, and the subsequent judgments against them, we would do well to take heed of them and be warned. We learn from their mistakes, and make sure that we do not fall into the same snares as they did.

Dear teen, may you learn what to avoid and never to do, seeing that God is displeased with those who are faithless and disobedient. It is wisdom indeed to learn from others and avoid the pitfalls. Paul teaches, “We should not lust after evil things.” These are the things of the world, the materialism that is so prevalent around us. Keep away from these longings and desires of the pleasures and prestige of the world. Instead, “Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

Thought: When we learn from others, we are spared the sufferings and pain of rebellion and disobedience.
Prayer: Our loving heavenly Father, teach me to fear Thee instead of fearing men. Thee must I please and not men. It is Thee that I must honour and obey. Help me, Lord, to walk humbly with Thee all the days of my life.