“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 stand up under it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13

2 Corinthians 1:8-11
“Don’t worry. God won’t give you more than you can handle.”
Have you ever received words of intended comfort like this from someone? Has it left you thinking, “But what I’m facing is more than I can handle”? Paul describes the troubles he and his companions experienced, saying that they were so utterly burdened beyond their strength that they thought they would die (see 2 Corinthians 1:8-9). This certainly sounds like their situation was more than they could bear.
At times I’ve struggled post-stroke with a sense of overwhelming despair. I can relate to Paul. Our Loving Father does, in fact, sometimes give us more than we can bear so that we learn to rely fully on Him. He has not left us alone in our suffering. Paul reminds us, “This happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead” (2 Corinthians 1:9b).
If you’re feeling hopeless, press on. Your strength does not come from within, but from the Lord (Psalm 121:1-2). He may give you more than you can bear, but it is not more than He can bear!



Scripture Focus

2 Corinthians 1:8-11

Insight

When the Lord has given you more than you can handle, remember that He also has given you Jesus.

Bible In A Year

  • Ezekiel 9-10
  • Psalm 135
  • Ephesians 1-2

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