Even Better: PerseveranceSample

Let's keep it real - life can really stink. Sometimes it's small things like plans falling through or having a bad day. Sometimes it's big things like someone you love passing away or your parents splitting up. The bottom line is that living life can be challenging. The cool thing is that when life gets hard, it never surprises God. He tells us repeatedly in his word that we should expect times to get hard. When you read James 1:2-4, you'll notice that not only is it assumed that "troubles" will happen, but God tells us how to respond to them. He tells us to be joyful. Joyful?! How are we supposed to do that?! When troubles come, we have two options. We can look at the problem or focus on how we can grow within the problem. God wants you to see the problems in your life as opportunities to develop endurance and increase your reliance on Him. So remember - every trouble that God allows in your life is something he can use to help you grow. So grow! God's with you every step of the way.

Challenge: What challenges are you facing today? Write them down- then, write a short prayer of thanksgiving to God. Thank him for being with you through the hard times of life, and ask him for perseverance.