As a counselor, I hear about a lot of suffering and
trials. Many people (if not most) have been the recipients of this supposed
encouragement, “God will not put more on you than you can handle.” I have even
heard pastors quote that from the pulpit. However, there is a problem with that
quote – it is not in the Bible! That is a misquote of 1 Corinthians 10:13. In
that passage Paul is talking about temptation, not trials and suffering.
If it is true that God will not allow stuff to come
into your life that you cannot handle, then why would you ever need God? That
statement is basically saying that God will never allow you to be in a place
where you need Him! That same sentiment fostered a similar statement, “God
helps those who help themselves.” Both of these statements sound good, until
you realize what they are really suggesting. This is not Biblical truth, but
demonic propaganda to keep us focused on what we can do.
In this life we will encounter various trials and
tribulations (Rom. 5:3; 2 Cor. 1:8-9; James 1:2; 1 Pet. 1:6). Peter said we should rejoice; James said we
should consider it all joy; Paul said we should exalt! They were not focusing
on the trial itself, but on the outcome. I do not have to be joyful about a
struggle with an addiction, nor do I have to think fondly of a wrong that has
been done to me. If I’m going through a trial that involves sickness, or
financial loss, or a relationship struggle, I do not have to rejoice in my hurt
and pain. I do, however, look forward to the sweet reward of the finished
product that God is displaying.
When I am setting my mind on the truth, which lifts
me above the struggle, I can see what God is doing (2 Cor. 4:18; Col. 3:2). I
can see Him stripping away everything that is not of Him or me. He said I have
a new heart (Ezk. 36:26) and that I share in His nature (2 Pet. 1:4). He said my
life is hidden in the life of Christ (Col. 3:3). When I attempt to live my life
according to my flesh and the things of this world, I am not displaying Christ’s
life in me (Gal. 5:16-17). Your trials and my trials, when placed in the hands
of the Master, become a tool in His hands to polish away dependence on the
flesh.
No matter where you are right now, whether it is
the massive weight of hurt inflicted on you by someone you are supposed to
trust, or a struggle with your own inability to overcome an addiction, or
sickness, grief, marital/family dysfunction, or regret over your past choices
and behaviors – focus on the One who has set you free. Know that He
truly cares for you; and He knows what you are going through because He too is
experiencing the journey with you.
