Together We Overcome
It is often quoted as scripture, “God will not give us more
than we can handle.” This is actually a
poor paraphrase of 1 Corinthians 10:12-13, “Therefore let anyone who thinks
that he stands take heed lest he fall. 13 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.” The word “temptation” is the same Greek word
that is also translated “trial”. Because
verse 14 is talking about fleeing from idolatry, “temptation” is the best
translation, though I think the application can be taken both ways. The warning in this verse is against pride
that causes us to stumble. We can
overcome temptations and trials only because of the faithfulness of God to
provide us a way out.
This truth continues to prove itself in my family. Keeping up with eight children is tough. When one is in college and one is just a few
days old, challenges are found daily. We
do not even pretend to think that we have this under control. The truth is we were overwhelmed when we just
had two children. We believe that God
has called us to this ministry and we seek his guidance for every decision we
make concerning who comes into our home.
Yes, God has given us more than we can handle. But it is when we admit that we cannot do it
that God shows his faithfulness. If we
thought we could stand on our own strength we would soon fall (verse 12).
One of the amazing ways God has provided us a way out is
through the Church. He has given us a
church family to lean on for support and accountability. We could not do foster care without your
support. Thank you for loving these
children as much as we do. Please
remember Tara, as well as Cheri, while Lucas, Jonathan and I are gone to
Malawi. They are tasked with the hardest
job of holding things together at home while we are away. Satan’s army will be attacking them as hard
as they are attacking us on the mission field.
Your encouragement and help to them will be an amazing way for us to
overcome the trials and temptations that come upon those who serve Him. God asks us to do more than we are able, but
together we will overcome. And in that, God
will receive the gory!
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