Elisabeth Elliot, a renowned Christian author and missionary, left behind a legacy of profound wisdom and unwavering faith. One of her most impactful quotes, often shared during times of grief and loss, speaks volumes about finding solace amidst sorrow: "The Lord does not give us more than we can handle, but He gives us more than we can handle so that we may give Him what we cannot handle." This seemingly paradoxical statement offers a powerful pathway to healing and spiritual growth. It acknowledges the overwhelming nature of grief while simultaneously pointing towards a source of strength beyond our own capabilities. Let's delve deeper into the meaning and application of this profound quote.
What Does Elisabeth Elliot Mean by "More Than We Can Handle"?
Elliot isn't suggesting that our suffering is insignificant or that God inflicts pain gratuitously. Instead, she's addressing the reality that grief, loss, and heartache often surpass our perceived capacity to cope. The weight of sorrow can feel crushing, leaving us feeling utterly helpless and overwhelmed. We may grapple with questions of "why," struggle with anger, or simply feel lost in a sea of despair. This "more than we can handle" is not a personal failing but a testament to the immense power of human emotion and the depth of our capacity for love and connection.
What are some examples of "more than we can handle"?
This can manifest in various ways. For instance:
- The death of a loved one: The pain of losing a spouse, child, parent, or close friend can feel unbearable. The void left behind can seem insurmountable.
- A devastating illness: Facing a serious illness, whether your own or that of a loved one, can be a profoundly challenging and overwhelming experience.
- Relationship breakdowns: The emotional turmoil of divorce, estrangement, or the loss of a significant relationship can leave individuals feeling shattered and alone.
- Financial hardship: Unexpected financial difficulties can create immense stress and anxiety, leading to feelings of helplessness and despair.
- Trauma: Experiencing a traumatic event, such as violence, abuse, or natural disaster, can leave lasting emotional scars and a sense of being overwhelmed.
How Can We "Give Him What We Cannot Handle"?
The second part of Elliot's quote is crucial: "so that we may give Him what we cannot handle." This isn't about passively enduring suffering; rather, it's an active surrender. It's about acknowledging our limitations, accepting the reality of our pain, and entrusting it to a higher power. This process involves:
- Prayer and seeking solace: Turning to prayer and spiritual practices can provide comfort and strength during difficult times. It's about communicating our pain, anxieties, and questions to God.
- Leaning on faith and community: Connecting with supportive friends, family, or faith communities can offer vital emotional and spiritual support. Sharing our burden can make it feel less heavy.
- Seeking professional help: Sometimes, professional help from therapists or counselors is necessary. They provide guidance and tools to navigate grief and trauma.
- Practicing self-compassion: It's important to treat ourselves with kindness and understanding. Allowing ourselves to grieve without judgment is crucial for healing.
Isn't it selfish to give God our problems?
This is a common misconception. Giving our problems to God isn't about shirking responsibility or avoiding effort. It's about recognizing that our resources are finite and that true strength lies in seeking help from a source beyond ourselves. It's an act of humility and faith, acknowledging our dependence on something greater.
Finding Strength in Surrender: Embracing the Paradox
Elisabeth Elliot's quote presents a paradox: we are given more than we can handle, yet through surrender, we find the strength to cope. This paradox embodies the spiritual journey of healing. It's in the act of surrendering our pain, our burdens, and our anxieties to a higher power that we discover a resilience and strength we never knew we possessed. It is in acknowledging our limitations that we open ourselves to the boundless grace and power of something beyond ourselves. This is not a passive resignation; it's an active choice to find strength in surrender and healing in faith.
