Verse of the Day - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

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Is it possible that the trials we go through, in part, are a testing ground, to see if we will praise God in the midst of them? The Bible says this is God's will for us who are in Christ Jesus.

When trials come, do we hang our heads in despair, or lift up our heads to the Sovereign God who holds us in His hand?

Although this type of spiritual living is difficult, it is, at the same time, rather simple. Give God the praise, all the time. Thank Him for circumstances, all the time. Be glad He is in charge and not us, all the time. Show God, yourself, and the world, that you are trusting God 100% for your life -- all the time.

They say "practice makes better." When are we going to get off the worry wagon and start practicing faith, start really trusting God, believing in Him as you would believe in anyone you entrust your life to? You get into an airplane and fly away, entrusting your very life to that pilot. You go into surgery and entrust your very life to that surgeon. People, God is the Maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen! He is holy, righteous and pure. He is eternal and constant. The time is NOW to walk in faith and trust Him from deep within our souls when times are hard. Practice daily the sacrifice of praise, because that is God's will for us who are in Christ Jesus.

Many of my friends are going through very difficult struggles right now, and I'm sure you know many in your circle of influence that are, too. I pray for their healing and their comfort and their peace. But I also pray for their faith in God, that they can grow spiritually in the very midst of their trials, that they can take the "high road" in their heart and mind and give God the thanks and praise, even when life sucks. 'Cuz it does sometimes. Sometimes, more than just sometimes.

May God give you the strength to praise Him in the storm...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0i5MzJ9nLjo

Love,
Joelene