Learning from the Past: Don’t Make the Same Mistakes! – March 26, 2025

Read: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13

Learning from the Past: Don’t Make the Same Mistakes!

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Can you think of a time when history repeated itself? Sometimes that’s a good thing—like when a country recovers after hard times. But sometimes it’s bad—like when wars keep happening in the same places.

In today’s reading, Paul warns the Corinthians not to repeat the mistakes of the Israelites. He tells them not to worship idols, like the Israelites did, and reminds them that just because they follow Jesus, it doesn’t mean they won’t be tempted. The Israelites believed in God too but still messed up by worshiping idols, making bad choices, and complaining.

Does history repeat itself in your life? Do you ever complain? Maybe you don’t like what’s on your plate at dinner, or maybe your friend gets to go on a great vacation, and you think, “That’s not fair! We never get to do anything fun!”

The truth is, no one is perfect. Even though you believe in Jesus, you’ll still struggle with sin. Sometimes it feels like the devil tries harder to pull us away from doing the right thing!

But don’t worry—you’re never alone. The Israelites weren’t alone. The Corinthians weren’t alone. And you aren’t alone either!

1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”

Did you hear that? God is faithful. You don’t have to fight temptation alone—God will always help you.

Maybe he helps you by teaching you to be thankful for the food in front of you. Maybe he helps you feel happy for your friend instead of jealous. Maybe he reminds you of the blessings he’s already given you!

Ask God to help you have a thankful heart. Ask him to help you make good choices and trust him every day!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for always being faithful. Thank you for showing me through the Bible how you have helped people for generations. Please forgive me when I complain or forget to be thankful. Help me to see all the blessings you’ve given me and trust you always. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• Have you ever complained about something? What was it?
• Who forgives you when you complain?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What does it mean to be thankful (or have gratitude)?
• How can you show that you are thankful and grateful in your life?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Do your friends tend to encourage others or complain more?
• How can you help your friends have an attitude of gratitude, too?