6Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. 7Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.” 8We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. 9We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, 10nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer. 11Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. 1 Corinthians 10:6-11

Take note of desire; it would rule us.

As a master, desire compels the idolization of that which is not true and not God.

It promises that our experience will make us free, happy, satisfied, and totally in control.

Yet, our knowledge of the good and the evil has not delivered the liberty promised.

Indulgence of our desires contrary to the ways of God,

presumption upon the grace of God, and

grumbling against God are symptoms of our slavery to desire.

Idolatry is no friend to the soul.

Yet, we know it well; it’s familiar; and we apologize for its failure, rationalizing its occupancy in our affections.

Lust for money, sex, and power

unchecked, will crush our souls.