“The Christian who walks with the Lord and keeps constant communion with Him will see many reasons for rejoicing and thanksgiving all day long.”

Warren W. Wiersbe

 

This was on FB yesterday and was very applicable.  Holidays are kind of difficult for me, as I only have a handful of family members left ..... all extended, no immediate family. And.... I won't be with any of those few on Thanksgiving or Christmas.  None the less, I'm SURROUNDED with blessings in every direction and I'm very thankful.  It's not about what day it is or who I am with, it's about the strength and comfort found in my faith and the Holy God who will be right by my side in all circumstances, 24/7.  I am not alone......ever!  

In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.  These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

(1 Peter 1:6-7)

In my mind, this is saying that my trials give me a payoff that is worth more than gold.  My faith is priceless, everything else has little value.  I can understand the logic behind this and I can understand the Truth behind this..... but.... I sometimes have trouble remaining strong and faithful during trials and suffering.  My faith certainly has chinks in its armor, so many holes that sometimes I fear that the devil may get the best of me.  I have to keep my focus Above, to the powerful God that gives me the courage and strength to face any opponent.  Thank you, God!