The beginning of this chapter reminds me of the saying – learn from the mistakes of others, because you'll never have time to make them all yourself. We have been amazed at the story of the deliverance of Israel from Egypt across the dry sea floor. But even more amazing is that so many of those same people turned to idolatry, and fornication, and complaining after this historic exodus!
It occurs to me that we are so shocked at how those whom God delivered can actually turn away from their deliverer because we're only looking at a snapshot. But could it be that we've also been guilty of stealing our time and attention and even worship at times from the one who has delivered us from so much? Let's learn from the mistakes of our forefathers and recognize that while we may be tempted from many sides, God is faithful and will not subject us to more temptation than we can bear. And God will always make a way of escape.
Later in the chapter we see more practical instruction in what I call principle-based living in contrast to rules-based. If rules alone are all that's governing our behavior, then we can easily end up doing things that are not pleasing to the Lord, and not beneficial to our brethren. The message here is, although something may be lawful, or within the rules, it may not be expedient. And just because I CAN do something, doesn't mean it's going to be edifying to others. So whether we eat, or drink, or whatever we do, let's do all for the glory of God, being careful not to cause anyone else to stumble from our decisions.
Joey Hart
