The promise of helpful examples
“Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.” (1 Cor. 10:6 KJV)
Avoid the school of hard knocks
This is the promise of many “examples” readily available throughout the Bible to help us avoid evil things. By using them for instruction we don’t have to learn critical lessons first-hand at the “school of hard knocks”. They will provide insight to keep us from making the same mistakes others have made.
In some cases, the examples are positive ones (Esther and Joseph) and teach us about faith.
Here are two examples
The first one is about Joseph who remained faithful to God, and was blessed even during negative times. The second is about David, who fell into deep sin, but was eventually restored to God.
We can learn some important lessons by reading about their lives
Joseph – A young man with visions from God, was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers. He was lied about and betrayed by his slave owner’s wife. He was put into prison and remained there for many years. But, he did not lose hope because he knew God was with him! He was always faithful to God and God blessed him and made him successful. He went from the pit to the palace in one day! (Gen. 41:46).
David – Lusted after another man’s wife, had an affair with her, then committed murder to try and cover it up. He was shown his sin by Nathan, he then repented, and was restored to God. (Psalm 51). He is referred to as “a man after God’s own heart”.
Therefore…
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance The race set out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.…” (Heb. 12:1-2)
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