“The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. How foolish we are to look for help among ourselves when we could have God’s help”.

II Chronicles 16:9 (paraphrased)

God doesn’t give you anything more than you can handle. This comforting encouragement has been around for ages. But honestly, sometimes hands are dealt to us that are pretty tough to handle, and we struggle with all our might to grasp them, but at the end of the day, we are left depleted of energy, weary, tired and more frustrated than ever.

But when we add two significant words to the end of that comforting phrase, we get more favorable results! God doesn’t give you anything more than you can handle WITHOUT HIM! Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:13 that we can do everything through Christ who brings us strength. Yet, so often in our forgetfulness, we foolishly fail to recognize our need to depend on God in our toughest battles.

We forget that when we get weary, He will bring us strength. When we get tired, He will refresh us. When we get worried, He will bring us peace. When we get frustrated, He will show us clarity. When we get impatient, He will assure us that He is in control. We forget that our battles can be fought with dignity and strength when we allow God to fight them with us.

Whatever it is today that you are trying to handle on your own, consider giving it to God. Surrender your independence and walk in the shadow of His light. And then, as He fixes His eyes upon you, you can confidently handle anything that is thrown your way, being filled with His strength and blessed with His peace.