Last month, I happened to check in with a friend of mine in Houston, Texas. She began telling me how the fire sprinklers in her apartment building froze and exploded, flooding the garage of the building where most residents’ belongings were in storage. All due to an unpredicted and rogue winter storm that hit the Midwest pretty hard.
Immediately, as if it were second nature, I told her of a common phrase that has been said to me at times that has brought me a sense of strength during challenging times:
“You’ve got this, God never gives us more than we can handle.”
As inspiring as that phrase can be, I wondered to myself…is this really true from a scripture perspective? So, I began researching.
When we hear the idea that “God will not give us more than we can handle,” most of us have likely read 1 Corinthians 10:13.
I took a closer look into the scripture and began digging deep in hopes of revealing some truths to this passage.
What Does the Bible Say About Challenge?
1. PROMISE: The passage doesn’t say God won’t give us more than we can handle. It says we won’t be tempted to sin beyond what we can resist and say no to. When we are tempted, this is where we have the promised help found in 1 Corinthians 10:13.
2. TEMPTATION: God has never tempted us to do wrong. Temptation stems from our own desires, which then entices us and drags us away. (James 1:13-14).
3. JESUS: Temptation happens to us all. Jesus himself was tempted but remained without sin (Hebrews 4:15). God never promotes temptation; He does however create an opportunity to escape it. Remember, He sent his only Son who showed us His perfect vision for our lives and died on the cross to forgive our sins.
So, Does God Give Us More Than We Can Handle?
Despite the broken pipes, bitter cold, and loss of power, my friend was surprisingly thankful. Instead of finding the negative in the situation, she decided she could help others within her community and that she has been blessed with this challenge as if it was a gift.
You see, she instinctively prepared all her belongings when they went into storage by meticulously placing them in sealable bags and bins. Because of her preparation and A-type personality, she happened to have enough dry blankets stored within her belongings to help those neighbors who were in desperate need of warmth amidst this natural phenomenon.
This promise does not mean we will never face misfortune.
With that said, know that God is not the patron of hardship, He is the giver of life and the source of love and blessings. Even at times when life becomes incredibly difficult, and you may find yourself in despair or even in tears saying to yourselves…” I just can’t handle this.” Remember,
God will never throw you more than he believes you can handle. Getting through these challenges will contribute to the person you are meant to be.
Dig Deeper
- What life challenges are you carrying with you today?
- How can He help you in your struggle against temptation?
Bring these questions with you in prayer.
