The Escape Route

1 Corinthians 10:13 (English Standard Version) reads as follows:

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.

Christians often look at this passage and think that "the way of escape" is some sort of magic door that appears to "show the way out." If we find ourselves in a particular sin, we think it's God's fault for not showing us the door. If I worry about financial problems, if God drops a Lotto ticket in my lap, then I won't have to worry any more. That would be convenient. Make my life easier.

So why is this way of escape so hard to find? After all, God promises that we'll not be tempted beyond our ability. Go grab your Bible. Read Matthew chapter 4.

Satan tempts Christ three times. The first time, he tempts Christ by challenging him to turn stones into bread. He answers with Scripture. The second time, he tempts Christ by challenging whether he is who he says he is. He answers with Scripture. The third time, he tempts Christ by challenging him to worship Satan instead of Christ. He answers with Scripture.

He answers with Scripture.

If you're holding your Bible, you're holding your way of escape.

We've got to know God's word. It's the way of escape.