‘God won’t give you more than you can handle.’ 

We hear this all the time, often placed against a beautiful background and posted on social media. This statement is constantly expressed by and to those who are suffering great difficulties or loss. I’d even used it and thought it myself without really thinking about what it means or where it came from. I had always assumed it was from the Bible, as do many other people. But it only takes a few minutes of reflection to realize that God DOES give us more than we can handle on our own. He gives us more than we can handle, and then He gives us comfort and support if we rely on Him.

The sentiment expressed above is taken, out of context, from 1 Corinthians 10.13, which actually says:

 ‘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.’

ESV

This verse specifically talks about temptation. It doesn’t say anything about difficult circumstances, trials, or trouble. As nice as this sentiment is, it’s taking Scripture out of context and it’s wrong. 

I urge followers of Jesus to take care and think before you use, or misuse, Scripture as trite platitudes.