God will not give you more than you can handle???

The past few days I have had a lot of people tell me not to worry that God will not give us more than we can handle.  I know personally I've said this in the past to people going through a difficult time without really thinking about the scriptural basis.  So here are my thoughts after looking into it...

From what I can tell this phrase most likely originates from the following verse:  

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man.  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 stand up under it.  (1 Corinthians 10:13)

This verse is actually talking about temptation to sin not hard things you go through.  So while I can see how some have used this verse I think we have taken it out of context if that is the basis for this comment.  I also can't find anywhere in the Bible that says God gives us hard things like child abuse or brain injuries because He thinks we can handle them.  And basically that is what we are telling people with this comment.  

I have however found countless scriptures that talk about difficult times and strength and protection during those times.

My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest. (Exodus 33:14)


It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. (Deuteronomy 31:8)


The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. (Deuteronomy 33:27)


The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. (Psalm 9:9-10)


I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. (Psalm 16:8)


The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war rise up against me, yet I will be confident. (Psalm 27: 1, 3)


You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. (Psalm 32:7-8)


I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. (Psalm 34:4)


And I really could keep going for a very long time with these scriptures.

So next time I am presented the temptation to tell someone that God will not give them more than they can handle I think I will rephrase it to say : "God will be there to give you strength and protection during this very difficult journey".