Through the Valley of Griefনমুনা

“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”

-1 Corinthians 10:13

Verses like this one are quoted sometimes as trite, though well meaning, comfort. All God’s Word is trustworthy and true, so the Apostle Paul’s words of encouragement to the Corinthians are true. No temptation will overcome you, if you call out to Jesus for help. In a similar way, no degree of grief can destroy you, in Jesus’s name. He sympathizes with every single human weakness. He gets it!

Still, this verse is not saying we will never be overwhelmed. Don’t let a condemning voice—either your own or someone else’s— shame you for feeling helpless or overwhelmed by the dreadful sufferings you’re facing. Many things in this life are too broken, evil, and devastating to overcome on our own. We need God’s power, his Spirit! The promise here is that Christ has already overcome all of it for us in his mighty name (John 16:33)! This is your hope. You won’t have the strength to handle every loss, but you don’t have to. The cross and resurrection of Jesus ensure that He, as your Risen Lord, carries every possible burden you could bear.

What is something on your plate that makes you feel like you’re drowning? What are you trying to handle in your own strength that you need to surrender to the Lord?