You're Not Strong Enough

You’re Not Strong Enough

Have you ever been confronted with something so difficult that you did not know how you could go on? It is in those times that often you will hear trite Christian platitudes designed to make people feel better with bumper-sticker theology.  But these quotes do little in the face of the actual brokenness of the world.  

I have a friend who is currently going through one life-threatening struggle after another. He has leaned on God all the way and God has strengthened him to face each new day. The emotion of despair has not overtaken him. One day a well-meaning Christian said to him, “God won’t give you more than you can handle.” I am sure you have heard those words before.

A limp, anemic statement such as that will not stand up in a broken world.

The primary problem with the quote is that it is not in the Bible.

There is, however, a statement that sounds like it.  In 1 Corinthians 10:13 we read, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humankind.  And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.”  Notice that the verse is about temptation.  That’s it.

The Bible reveals quite another story when it comes to struggles.

The apostle Paul faced many struggles in his life. He wrote, “For we do not want you to be ignorant, brothers and sisters, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. We were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself.  Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves, but on God who raises the dead" (2 Cor. 1:8-9).

Take note of these scriptures as well.

 “But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me.” (2 Timothy 4:17).

“I can do all things thru Him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13).

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).

When you find yourself struggling and you have nothing left to give – when life’s difficulties are beyond your capability to cope, it is in those times you must rely on God.  Approach Him with an authentic faith that engages Him with the full brunt of your emotion and pain.  Then, the strength of the God of resurrection will be seen.

Dear Heavenly Father, life is often difficult. We sometimes feel overwhelmed and  don’t understand why you choose to leave us in the midst of the struggle. I hurt for my friend and his struggles, but I thank you for giving him strength. He is courageous because you stand by him! Thank you for our friendship and for showing me an unwavering strength in the face of weakness. I ask that you continue to hold him up. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Terry Smith 
Stephenville, TX