“There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way of escape that ye may be able to bear it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Our temptations and trials, says Paul, may be unique; but they are, nevertheless, tailor-made, in this sense: they suit us personally at any given time in our Christian lives. Just as a wise parent disciplines individual children by different, yet fair, means, God the Father fashions trials for His individual children in ways appropriate to their particular needs and temperaments, according to His long range plan for their lives.
Each testing is custom made to help develop character and maturity. What would strengthen a seasoned Believer might very well break a young one. But, on the other hand, a seeming roadblock to a spiritual “babe” would probably only amount to a speed bump to a mature Christian. Notice the verse promises that we will not be tempted to any greater extent than we personally are able to bear. God is aware of our distinctive temperaments, doubts, and secret fears. This is why when you or I look at another Christian and ask, “How can he or she withstand this?” that same individual may be wondering the same thing about us.
The important thing to remember is that this personalized treatment comes from a loving Father, Who can always be trusted to provide us with a perfect fit…even in the matter of trials.
This is my valley
I will not complain
I know it’s good for me
To suffer tears and pain
This is my trial
I will do my best
To stand each trial and test
This is my valley.
— Dottie Rambo
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