God May Give You More Than You Can Bear

Some things are worth repeating, and some misquotes of the Bible are worth calling out again. When someone is going through a rough stretch – usually some physical challenge – a believer may console them with the words, “God will not give you more than you can bear”. So hang in there, friend! It will be okay.

The reality is, it might not ever be okay until our heaven-going, if we are believers. This so-called word of encouragement is a lie that will only leave the recipient disappointed, disillusioned, and, possibly, cause them to turn their back on God.

Before I clarify what this misquoted verse really means, consider it at face value. Would you say this statement to a rape victim? How about a soon-to-be martyr at the hands of ISIS? What about someone about to die of cancer after a horrid physical deterioration? Were they given more than they could bear? You bet.

Here is this dangerous saying in its actual context in 1 Corinthians 10:13:

“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.”

So guess what? This fully quoted verse is about resisting temptation and has nothing to do with God rescuing someone from an unbearable trial.

Look at Job in the Old Testament. His life was made a living Hell – with God’s permission (Job 1:12). He experienced pain that most in the western world cannot fathom. He lost everything. And what was his response, even though he was given more than he could bear? “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised” (Job 1:21). The first half of verse 15 in Chapter 13 is also worth mentioning: “Though he (God, not Satan) slay me, yet will I hope in him”. It is hard for us to understand the ways of the God who loves us, why He would allow unbearable pain. But it is truth nonetheless. We will understand one day.

Whatever you or a loved one may be going through, realize that each of us may be given more than we can physically and emotionally bear. We may be broken to the point of death. But as believers, we can take heart that a glorious eternity awaits. This is the blessed hope that we have in Jesus (Titus 2:11-14).

“Our present sufferings are not worth comparing
with the glory that will be revealed in us”
Romans 8:18

May this encourage you or someone you know who is suffering today.