Whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity for joy.   
When your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.                   
So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed,                                  
you will be strong in character and ready for anything.
James 1:2-4 NLT

Persevere in trouble—and you will be able to rejoice whatever happens.

I am the Song of your heart.

When you feel like quitting, gaze again at the cross and keep on going.

Do not try to pray your way out of trouble—pray your way through it.

In your trial by fire, I am the Fourth Man.

Hard times do not last forever—after a long dark night there is a dawn.

Stoics take it on the chin and grit their teeth, somberly trudging ahead.

Epicureans party and try to forget difficulties, joking until the hangover.

Christians trust Me and experience joy beyond description.

The human situation is dark chaos—but My Spirit is your Night Light.

Wait on Me—last and you will laugh.

Purify your thoughts—and you will be refined from the inside out.

I am the Sanctifier of your mind.

I allow trials to test your faith and produce unalloyed devotion.

In 1787, John Keith composed “How Firm a Foundation,”  a hymn that

beautifully describes My intention for your life:

“The flame shall not hurt you; I only design your dross to consume,

and your gold to refine.”

To win over sin, daily internalize and treasure My Holy Word.

Worship Me—learn My lessons and walk in My light.

Prepare for tomorrow—and you will be ready to meet Me face to face.

I am the Strength of your soul.

Whatever I ask of you, I enable you to accomplish.

Faith under fire is a character-building experience.

Flames leap high in the crucible—impurity burned away, I see My face.

Let Me work in you—yield to Me as your Lord and truly live.

© By Pastor Johnny R. Almond          Day 356, Gentle Whispers from Eternity