Strength to Endure Temptation Comes from the Lord

The blessed apostle declares that all the endurance with which we can bear the temptations brought upon us depends not so much on our own strength as on the mercy and guidance of God: “No temptation has come upon you except what is common to man. But God is faithful, who will not let you be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make a way of escape, so that you may be able to bear it.” And the same apostle teaches that God fits and strengthens our souls for every good work, and works in us all the things that are pleasing to him: “May the God of peace, who brought out of darkness the great Shepherd of the sheep, Jesus Christ, in the blood of the everlasting covenant, fit you in all goodness, working in you what is well pleasing in his sight.” And he prays that the same may happen to the Thessalonians, saying: “Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who has loved us and has given us everlasting consolation and good hope in grace, exhort your hearts and strengthen you in every good word and work.” [a]