Joy in Suffering

These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold--though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. 1 Peter 1:7 NLT

John Piper so poignantly said: "If you live gladly to make others glad in God, your life will be hard, your risks will be high, and your joy will be full." My joy is overflowing!

Listen to John Piper's incredible podcast called, "The Inexplicable Life: Humility, Hope and Love in Suffering. It's SO good!

The Battle Has Been Won

As Christians, we are not promised smooth sailing. If we are truly following Jesus, we will undoubtedly rock the proverbial boat and experience rough waters. This summer, I have been wading in those waters. At times, I even had the sense that I might drown in them. But when I have been able to catch my breath and get my bearings, I am always brought back to the truth that--although we may be caught off guard by our trials, God is not. Just the opposite. He’s at work in the midst of all our circumstances, directing all things for His glory and our good (Romans 8:28). When we face persecution, we need not run from it, but to look for what the Lord is accomplishing in the midst of it. We can even respond radically by giving thanks--in ALL things--because the price has been paid and the battle, won. 

Here is a wonderful, encouraging article by Max Lucado, "What Was Meant for Evil, God Uses for Good." Click below to read it. I hope it encourages you as you face storms in your life.  http://www.faithgateway.com/what-was-meant-for-evil-god-u…/…