COUNT IT ALL JOY . . .

COUNT IT ALL JOY . . .

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds,
because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and
complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4 (NIV)

Listen to the words of Fenelon about how to handle the trials we face:
"Don't bargain with God to get out of this mess in the easiest, most
comfortable way. Embrace the cross. Live by love alone. Let God do what
He needs to do to root out your self-love. Pray within yourself all day
long. Live in prayer -- let it touch everything you do. Be aware of
God's presence with you -- even when you are busy. Do this and peace
will be yours.

You will not become perfect by hearing or reading about perfection. The
important thing is not to listen to yourself, but silently listen to
God. Talk little and do much, without caring to be seen. God will teach
you more than any book or person can. Do you need to go to school to
learn how to love God and deny yourself? You already know much more
about good than you currently practice. What you need is to put into
practice what you already know! Don't try to gain knowledge before you
practice what you already see."

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has
stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised
to those who love him." James 1:12 (NIV)

"Growth and depth and strength and consistency and fruitfulness and
ultimately in Christlikeness is only possible when the winds of life are
contrary to personal comfort. Just as the storms make it possible for
eagles to soar, so suffering makes it possible for you and me to attain
the highest pinnacles in the Christian life. Suffering develops our
faith. God uses His will, which can go against human logic and sense.
The reason is to focus on our faith, not on our friends . . . or ability
. . . or resources . . . or knowledge . . . or strength . . . or
ANYTHING other than HIM ALONE!" -- Anne Graham Lotz

Good words for today, my friend. May God bless you.

THE SEEKING HEART by Fenelon and MY JESUS IS EVERYTHING by Ann Graham
Lotz, are available at the Keswick Online Bookstore --
www.americaskeswick.org