Have you ever felt like you were the only person in the world with your problem?
I remember going to a conference and sitting in a crowded classroom. I happened to be in a place where the flow from an air conditioning vent fell right on me, making me very uncomfortable. And as I looked around the room, I became convinced that I was the only person in the place who had to suffer under that vent. Woe is me; I’m the only one going through this!
It’s true that in a particular time or place, I may be the only one seated in a problem area. But when it comes to the serious issues of life, the Bible assures me that I’m not the only one going through them:
1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV) No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
The Greek word translated “temptation” in the Bible also means “trial.” So, I read this verse as assuring me that whatever I may be going through, I’m not alone! It’s common to man. That means that others have faced similar circumstances, and with God’s help, have made it through. And so can I.
So, never let “I’m the only one who has to go through this!” drag you down into your own self-pity party. Your problem is not unique, and God already has a way of escape to bring you through it.
Ron Franklin
