For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea. . .For they drank from the spiritual Rock and that followed them, and the Rock was Christ. Nevertheless, with most of them God was not pleased, for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. . .1 Corinthians 10:1-6
As uncomfortable as it is, I am very grateful that God included failure in the Bible, as well as success. I am glad that the people God chose to have us “know” had flaws.
God has given me His Word so I can learn from their mistakes. And, so I can know that, when God says in His Word that “He knows my frame, He knows I am dust” in Psalm 103, He means it.
There are four broad categories that the apostle warns his readers against:
Do not be idolaters . . .We must not indulge in sexual immorality . . .we must not put Christ to the test . . .nor grumble. . .1 Corinthians 10:7-10
Just in case you are prone (as I am) to put sins in a category of “big” or “serious” and “minor” or “mistakes” — grumbling is put in the same kind of category as idolatry, sexual sin, and ‘daring Christ’. . .
Grumbling is serious stuff. It destroys contentment. It denies God’s goodness. It is the opposite of trust.
And it is so easy to do.
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. 1 Corinthians 10:13
God will never leave me nor forsake me. He knows the temptation to grumble. He has given Himself. I can run to Him. I can tell Him I am weak, and need His strength. I can tell Him I am scared and need His courage. I can tell Him I feel abandoned and need His Immanuel . . .
God is faithful. I can trust Him. I don’t need to grumble.
And I am so grateful.
Plea for Grace 