The Shortcut through the Locked Gate
Written for Bible Journey Plan. Our editorial standards.
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.
1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV
This is an original fictional illustration, not a historical report or an added Bible event.
Three friends wanted to reach the playing field quickly. One suggested climbing a locked gate with a warning sign. Mason knew another entrance was farther down the road, but nobody wanted the longer walk.
He pointed toward the open entrance and started that way. One friend complained, then followed. The third joined them a moment later. They arrived late enough to miss a few minutes, and early enough to enjoy the afternoon safely.
Temptation often tries to make a wrong choice look like the only practical one. Paul reminds believers that God is faithful. We are not forced to sin. Mason's situation was a small illustration, but the lesson mattered. The right way may be inconvenient, and friends may complain. We can still take it. A longer walk can be better than a shortcut that requires ignoring what is right.
Bring the truth into your day
Temptation can make the wrong choice feel like the only choice. Paul points believers toward God's faithfulness and provision for endurance. Take the available way away from sin. Leave the dishonest plan, close the harmful material, or seek help from a trustworthy adult. This verse is about temptation and should not be used to dismiss someone who feels overwhelmed by suffering. People in difficulty may need substantial care and support.
Keep the passage in context
Paul warns believers against the sins illustrated in Israel's history. God's faithfulness in temptation calls for watchfulness and obedience, not confidence in our own strength or a promise that suffering will feel manageable alone.
Read further: 1 Corinthians 10 in the King James Bible.