Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

God draws us close to the power of His plan. He arms us with everything we need to examine our hearts and recognize WHY we need the love of our Savior. He shows us where to find peace as we TRUST in His power to save. 

As we feel the love of His presence, God helps us cope with HOPE and remember why we need amazing grace. He gives us strength and readies us to serve Him with ALL of our hearts. He grows our faith so we will recognize gifts from the Holy Spirit and use them to honor Him.

God wants us to grow in His Word and learn how to welcome timely rewards. We were created for His great purpose. He longs for us to believe in His promise to provide, set pride aside and faithfully focus on Jesus.   

When we become sidetracked and forget which way to go, Jesus will lead us back where we belong. As we journey with Him, we will recognize the power of God’s plan and find comfort from the compassion of Christ. It will humble us to come as we are and follow a faithful friend.  

Circumstances in life will draw us closer to the Father as we step in the footsteps of Jesus and allow Him to build our trust. HE is our Cornerstone; the ROCK that holds us in a firm foundation. So, when rain falls hard, we will not be moved if we’re anchored by “spiritual structures that reflect His glory” and hold us with the promise of eternal reward. 

God has a plan for the future. “In the midst of our struggles and disagreements, we can stand together on the firm foundation of Christ, helping one another build toward things that will echo into eternity. “ 

When the Holy Spirit fills us with what we need to LOVE like Jesus and share the gifts we’re given, we will build our relationship with God as we welcome fulfillment in our hearts. We were not created to live on our own, or struggle in sinking sand. The joy of the Lord is our STRENGTH. 

We must “strive for restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind and live in peace. And, the love and peace will be with us.” 2 Corinthians 13:11

Dear God, thank you for the power of Your love. You take what is broken and make it beautiful in so many ways. Open the eyes of our hearts so we will see Jesus and focus on the goodness of mercy and grace. Give us strength when we stand in sinking sand and desire to be pulled from ditches of doubt. Thank you for Jesus, our Solid Rock! Help us build a good foundation as we glorify YOU and honor You with a servant’s heart. Thank you for peace that comes when we stand on our Solid Rock, share the Good News and love YOU with all of hearts.  Amen