I Can't Take It

Some of us think this quite often, and some of us go right ahead and say it out loud: I can’t take it! I’ve had more than enough of this Lord ---could You let me off the hook for awhile?
Timothy was a young minister who, Paul knew, would have to bear more than seems humanly bearable. “Now therefore, my son, take strength from the grace of God which is ours in Christ Jesus…. Take your share of hardship, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Tim. 2:1,4).
Whether you can take what life dishes out, and the difficult people life puts you into contact with, depends on what you take first. If you take from the grace of God the strength offered, you will find it absolutely sufficient to cover any need. You will find yourself quite amazingly able to bear the hardship of life’s bitter battle as a good soldier. But the soldier has to be trained, prepared, and equipped first. Don’t rush into the fray and try to “take it” without first taking strength.
Lord, for the needs of hardships of today, I come for Your strength. I receive it with thanks in Jesus’ name. You, Lord, are my Strength.

The Music of His Promises by Elisabeth Elliot