[Biblemat] How way of escape made (question/answer)

[Don Martin]

Don Martin with question and answer number 110 for
this week (Tuesday):

Hello Alice,

Thank you so much for your question and for making use of
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You asked:

I know from 1 Cor. 10:13 that we will have trials and that God
will not allow us to be tempted above that we are able and He has
provided a way of escape.  Where in the Bible does it say that if we
are tempted beyond what we can handle, to pray and He will make
some way?  Is that what the "way to escape" means in 1 Cor. 10:13?

Reply:

I believe the expression, "...make a way to escape" in I Corinthians
10: 13 involves at least two influences:  God's providence and man's
ability and willingness to look for the provided way.  Regarding God's
providence, man cannot always point to an event and say with
certainty, "Here is an example of God's providence" (it could be).  To
place the means of escape all on God is wrong and, conversely, to
place it all on man is wrong.  Beyond these comments, man is hindered
by ignorance.  Consider the below:

I Corinthians 10: 13 reads as follows:  "13: There hath no
temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful,
who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will
with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to
bear it."  To learn more about Paul's teaching in this verse, please go to
www.bibletruths.net and enter through the door.  When on the Site
Map page, click on "Archives and Index,' then click on the letter "C"
on the Archives page.  Look for the article, "I Corinthians 10: 13, a
Promise."  Here is a brief excerpt from the material:

     "...The Spirit led the apostle Paul in I Corinthians 10: 13 to make a
statement that has served as a source of encouragement and strength to
many in some of their darkest hours of potential despair and
discouragement. The verse, therefore, is certainly worthy of our
exegesis and analysis....."

I shall also insert below a sermon outline from Bible Truths.  You are
encouraged to check out the many features and vast archives of Bible
material in Bible Truths

                            Why does God Allow Trials?


     Introduction: "Trial" is defined as "an affliction or trouble." (RHCD).
The remainder of the definition is very important: "act of testing or
trying." (Ibid.). There are mainly four Greek words translated "trial." The
resident action is that of testing. One of the four (purosis) suggests
refining or testing by fire (I Pet. 4: 12).

I. The purpose of trials.

  A. Difficulties prove our faith (I Pet. 1: 6, 7).

  B. Enduring trials produces humility and patience (2 Cor. 12: 7, 10; Rom.
5: 3).

  C. The scriptures address what the conduct of the Christian should be
while enduring trials.

    a. There is to be rejoicing, praying, singing, and working (Jas. 1: 2;
Acts 16: 25; I pet. 4: 19).

II. God's promises to those who endure trials.

  A. Regarding Paul's thorn in the flesh he was told, "my grace is
sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness." (2 Cor.
12: 9).

  B. God also promises deliverance in time of trial for his people (Ps. 34:
7).

  C. Another promise is the crown of life. Hear Paul, "I have fought a good
fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is
laid up for me a crown of righteousness." (2 Tim. 4: 7, 8).

III. Trials are part of life.

  A. Some of our problems are brought about by our sins (Prov. 13: 15).

  B. Some difficulties come as a result of doing what is right (2 Tim. 3:
12).

  C. Accompanying each "difficulty," though, God has provided a way of
escape (I Cor. 13: 10).

  D. Regarding trials James wrote, "My brethren, count it all joy when ye
fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith
worketh patience." (Jas. 1: 2, 3).

     Conclusion:  Even though most cringe at the thought of problems and
difficulties, man needs resistance and trials to challenge and make him a
better person. Without trials, man tends to be arrogant. Listen to the
Psalmist: "It is good for me that I have been afflicted: that I might learn
thy statutes" (Ps. 119: 71).

Thanks again for your good question and for your interest in spiritual
matters. I recommend that you print out this email for future reference (web
addresses, etc.). You may print out any material you desire in both Bible
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home page in Bible Truths).

Cordially,
Don Martin  dmartinbtbq at comcast.net

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