As I return from vacation, let me share something that David writes in 2nd Samuel 22 verse 18 – “He delivered me from my strong enemy, From those who hated me, for they were too strong for me. When I read this verse my mind went to what I hear a lot of people saying these days which is,“God will not give us more than we can handle.” What we read here in this verse is that David’s enemies were too strong for him. What I see is that God gave David more than he could handle with his enemies because they were too strong for him. You see I have a real problem with the idea that God will not give us more than we can handle because I think that God does give us more than we can handle.
Let me explain my position on this: many will automatically go to 1 Corinthians 10:13 which says, No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. When I read this verse I see it not saying God will not will not give us more than we can handle but I see it is saying that by ourselves the problems we face will be too much for us and that the only way we can endure problems that are too much for us is with Him.
Many say that God will not give you more than you can handle but they never go to God and they never really think about God except to add Him into their trite saying. When it comes around to this idea again, my mind again goes to another verse because the only way that we can make it through anything in life and through any problems is by abiding in Him. Jesus said in John 15:5 - I am the vine, you are the branches: He that abides in me, and I in him, the same brings much fruit: for without me you can do nothing. That is how we can make it through – by abiding in Him!
Here is what I think about all this talk about God not giving us more than we can handle. You see, I wholeheartedly believe that God will give us more than we can bear on our own but not more than we can bear with Him. When you try to take on life’s problems and issues all by yourself, you will fail, fall short, and really struggle. On the other hand, if you abide in Him and leave it all with Him – He will take it on his shoulders and you will be able to endure! Give it to Him and move forward allowing him to carry the weight of it all.
So yes God will give us more than we can handle alone but not more than we can bear if we abide in Him.
What are your thoughts? Does God give us more than we can handle or not?
I totally agree with you Jim…
I never really thought about it that way…
if God really never gives us more than what we can handle…then want’s the point of needing him right?…
really good thoughts today…
Thanks Arny. I certainly agree with this: “if God really never gives us more than what we can handle…then want’s the point of needing him right?…”
I’m living with the topic of dependence of late. The more I think and dwell and meditate on that word, the more I’m aware of how dependent we are on God for everything. Everything.
To me, the matter of God giving me more than I can handle or not giving me more than I can handle is a non-issue. God gives and takes away. The question for me is: am I willing to put myself under his Lordship over my life to the point where I can sincerely say to Him: “whatever, Lord”?
Great attitude Scott. I think it would do us all well to dwell on dependence. Thanks for adding in!
Excellent point! I am guilty of saying the same thing, but really believing what you said. I suppose we say God will not give us more than we can handle to alleviate our fear that something horrible could happen otherwise. Again, excellent point.
Thanks Mike. I think you are right in the fact that we do it to alleviate our fear. Thanks again for adding to the discussion.
I think people who say “God never gives you more than you can handle” are actually looking for a way out or an explanation for troubles. Good word Jim. Glad you are back.
Thanks Bill. I agree that they are looking for an explanation. Glad to be back.
Nothing is impossible with God; by ourself, not so much!
Amen.
“God will give us more than we can bear on our own but not more than we can bear with Him”
I think this sums it up pretty well. When men’s strength ends, God strength begins. His power is perfected in our weakness!
The key like you mentioned is to, “abide in Him.” When we do this every challenge or hard time might seem like it’s huge but He will be beside us, guiding and leading us.
ps. I hope you had a good vacation.
Abiding in Him is key! Thanks Dan – vacation was very good!