Have you said that before? What’s going on in your life where you’ve uttered those words? Just about the time we say that, God sometimes teaches us more. Many believers say things like, “Well, God will never give you more than you can bear.” That’s not always true. Jesus said in John 16 that you will have trouble in this world; but the courage comes later when He says, “Take heart! I have overcome the world” (verse 33, NIV). How do we encourage our kids when we’re going through these trials? First, point out that God never promises our lives to be trouble free. Also, remind our kids that God uses these moments to make us stronger. 1 Peter 5:10 says after you’ve suffered a little while, He’ll make you strong.

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Suggested Reading: John 16:33,, 1 Peter 5:10