Learning from Biblical Examples: How Scripture Guides Our Walk with God

“Now 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 10:11 (ESV)

Have you ever read about Eve or Sapphira in Scripture and thought, “I would have done better”?

It’s a thought many of us entertain. Whether it's Eve’s decision in the garden or Sapphira’s deceit in Acts, we like to imagine we’d have chosen differently. We convince ourselves that, placed in the same situations, we would have made godlier choices—chosen God, resisted temptation, and stood firm in righteousness.

But is that really true?

Recognizing the Reality of Our Flesh

The truth is, if we’re being completely honest, we might recognize that our response wouldn't be all that different. Scripture reminds us that:

The Spirit and the flesh are at odds (Galatians 5:17).
Sin is always lurking, ready to seize an opportunity (Genesis 4:7).

This daily tension reveals our deep need for grace and the ongoing work of sanctification in our lives. The Bible doesn’t just tell us what to do—it shows us, through lived examples, what happens when we ignore God's commands, and what blessing follows when we obey.

Biblical Warnings Are For Us Today

“Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.” —1 Corinthians 10:12 (ESV)

It’s easy to read about the Israelites, Eve, Sapphira, or even the Corinthian church and assume we’d never fall into the same traps. But Paul’s warning in 1 Corinthians 10 reminds us that overconfidence is dangerous. The stories in Scripture are not distant historical accounts—they are living lessons meant for our instruction.

God uses these stories to:

Reveal the seriousness of sin
Encourage spiritual vigilance
Equip us with wisdom for Christian living

Idolatry Today Looks Different—But It's Still Real

While we may not bow down to golden calves or worship foreign gods, idolatry is still very present in our culture today. It may take the form of:

Career ambitions that consume us
The approval of others
Comfort and convenience
Social media and constant distraction

In many ways, these modern-day idols subtly shift our gaze from the One who should mean everything to us. Learning from biblical examples helps us identify these shifts early and course-correct with the help of the Holy Spirit.

How to Take Heed and Walk Faithfully

So, how do we “take heed” in light of these Scriptural warnings and examples? Here are two key ways:

1. Identify Pride and Overconfidence

Spiritual pride can easily lead to complacency. When we believe we’ve “arrived,” we stop being vigilant. Recognize the ways your own heart may be drifting from dependence on God.

2. Invite the Holy Spirit to Search Your Heart

“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!” —Psalm 139:23 (ESV)

Only the Holy Spirit can convict, cleanse, and consecrate. Ask Him to reveal hidden idols, convict you of sin, and strengthen your heart for obedience. True spiritual growth starts with surrender.

The Purpose of Scripture Is Our Encouragement and Hope

“For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” —Romans 15:4 (ESV)

God’s Word is filled with hope for the believer. Learning from biblical examples doesn’t just protect us from sin—it gives us courage to press on, clarity for godly living, and deep assurance that we’re not alone in this walk of faith.

Final Encouragement

You don’t need to rely on your strength to walk faithfully. Scripture is your guide, the Spirit is your helper, and the body of Christ is your support. Let the examples in the Word lead you not to pride, but to humility and deeper devotion.