When asked what scripture people use to support this statement, they often refer to 1 Corinthians 13:10. “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. 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 endure it.” Indeed, this verse says that God will not put more on you than you can bear…in regards to temptation. We are promised that a way out will be provided to help us resist any temptation that may arise. However, this passage does not refer in any way to trials, struggles, or stressful circumstances.
In fact, it doesn’t even make sense that God would protect us from these things. As Christians, we are called to be persecuted. We are called to suffer for the sake of Christ…and smile about it.
“You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted….” (2 Timothy 3:10-12)
“Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:12)
So the next time you hear somebody say that God will not give us more than we can handle, please correct them. This is not a Biblical truth, and it actually contradicts the command to take up our cross and sacrifice everything for our faith. Not only will God allow us to suffer and be persecuted, He commands us to accept it.
Has God ever allowed you to face seemingly unbearable circumstances?