Read:

1 Corinthians 10:13 "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."

Think:

Most of us have heard sweet-meaning people say, "God won't give us more than we can handle." They pull the phrase from 1 Corinthians 10:13; the issue is that what they are saying is wrong. Even Paul, who wrote this, faced extreme trials and difficulties that he couldn't overcome. Let's look at the verse to find out what God is saying.

The church in Corinth, to whom this book was written, was surrounded by idol-worshiping pagans. The Christians were tempted at every corner to turn away from God. Paul was giving his readers hope that they could resist and that this temptation wasn't unique to them. He also reminds us, as readers, that we will be tempted to turn away, but we have God's strength to overcome it.

Paul reiterates the focus on Jesus, not the temptation. He reminds us to avoid no-win situations. (The Corinthians kept putting themselves around idol worship by attending cultic dinners.) And Paul goes on to promise that God will provide a way out, if we will watch for it and take the opportunity when it comes.

The last part of the verse is inconvenient: sometimes you just have to endure. But his power will give us the grace, the strength, the wisdom to strive for our good, for the good of the Church, and for the good of his glory.

Apply:

God will provide a way, but we must follow his directions. Are you following his directions today? Do you listen to his Word? Are you staying close to him?

Pray:

Jesus, I ask that you walk with me throughout the day. Lead me to the path you desire me to take. Allow me to hear your voice the loudest. Let me lean on you when I am weak. In Jesus' name, Amen.