God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear" (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Illness, loss of work, or deep sorrow fall upon us. We can be tempted to see no point in experiencing hardship and trials. The temptation is very real to despair of God's goodness and mercy. Do we feel that the Lord is asking too much of us to persevere each day under these things?
Just as athletes know that muscles and endurance are strengthened by the stress of weight training; Christians need to be reminded that suffering and trials are among God's tools to strengthen and refine faith (1 Peter 1:6-7). We have confidence in this because Jesus Christ has entered into our trials, carried their weight, and given us His victory.
But the Lord also knows that such things can crush us. He knows our breaking point and promises never to exceed it. Because Christ has put on our human flesh to suffer and die on our behalf, we can be confident that His promises are faithful and true.
The Lord also provides a way for us to get through every temptation. The way is Jesus Christ, who carried the real brunt of our sins. He endured real suffering and pain, even death. He removed the real burden of our sins and promised us that beyond the cross is the crown of everlasting life! Even in our deepest depression, we know that He is faithful to us.
At this moment, may He grant you the heavenly vision that lies beyond this troublesome life, for Jesus' sake!
-Dale
