It's All Good!

We will always face difficult times in life. The true test is in how we react to them. The book of James instructs us to 'consider it joy' when we are faced with different trials. This is because as trials come, we are met with obstacles that will strengthen our faith. And that's a good thing!

When I was in the Marine Corps, we used to run the obstacle course, which was a series of various barriers and hurdles that we would have to traverse. Through the months of our training we would have to face this course many times, and each time, it would get progressively easier. By the time I finished boot camp, I felt like I could conquer the world. I had learned a very valuable lesson...trials produce strength and confidence! The same holds true for the trials we face in life. The more we STAND in the face of difficult times, the stronger and more confident we become in our faith.

So the next time you encounter hardship, start praising, lift up a shout. You may look and feel crazy at the time, but it will help you get through. Each time we would begin our obstacle course, they trained us to give a 'war cry' as we went through it. I had no idea why they taught us that, but as I went through, I began to feel empowered and my adrenaline helped carry me through. Well, we as Christians have more than just adrenaline to carry us through, we have God on our side and He has promised us that He would work everything out for our good. So consider it joy, cause It's All Good!

"We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him and are chosen to be a part of His plan."

~Romans 8:28 (NLV)