God Never gives you more than you can handle

[bhebert]

Hi Mike

Wanted to pass an idea by you for a biblical interpretation if possible.
one: is the cliche "God never gives you more than you can handle" biblical, or is it something conjured up by someone somewhere?
two:i have had a few personal discussions with someone with a lot on their plate, and i feel like i should start some Christian dialogue with this person. in having such discussions, this person always comes back with the above cliche, which seems to give her comfort in times of need. i can relate to similar family sicknesses and other things going on in her life, but cant help but think that God does give us more than we can handle-- mainly so we can call out or cry out to him in times of need. so we can realize that we are completely dependent on him, our Sovereign God.

Anyway, i want to tell this co-worker this(or something similar)in hopes that a healthy Christ centered conversation starts up and propagates thereafter, but wanted to get your advice prior to doing so. i know i will hear this cliche again, if not from her,then from someone else.

**OH YEAH, I CANT REMEMBER WHERE I GOT THIS IDEA FROM(ME OR SOMEONE ELSE) SO I CANNOT TAKE OWNERSHIP OF IT... I DO A LOT MORE LISTENING THAN I DO TALKING, SO I TEND TO THINK I RIPPED IT OFF SOMEWHERE, BUT HONESTLY CANT REMEMBER WHERE. PROB A SUNDAY SCHOOL DISCUSSION**

thanks

[Mike Miller]

Great question, and goes to show how our theology can be derived more from pithy cultural sayings than from the Bible. That statement is not found in the Bible anywhere. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says that God will not allow us to be tempted beyond our ability, but will also provide a way of escape so we don't fall into sin. In other words, the "I couldn't help myself" defense won't work. But that's the closest thing I can see to the statement in question.

You are correct in your response to the statement by saying that God does give us more than we can handle. He does not, however, give us anything that He can't handle. Of course, God's promises of help are for those walking in relationship with Jesus. They are not promises for non-Christians nor for Christians living in rebellion against Him.

So, instead of saying that God won't give me more than I can handle, I would rather say, "I am weak and frail. But Jesus is greater than any obstacle I face or burden I bear. Therefore, I will endeavor to cling to Him as tightly as possible so that I can survive whatever comes my way."