V:4 N:39

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

Are you being tested? Does this path seem hard sometimes? Expect it! You are working to give your whole heart and whole life to God, and you should expect testing. But here is what you can do:

• First, EXPECT a spirit to be present that constantly asks: “Is all of this worth it? Why is it so hard to put the food down? Does God really care that much?” Take every thought captive – don’t even entertain thoughts that question if devoting your whole heart to God is worth it!
• Second, keep FOCUSED on your own heart and your own things to work on. Do not project and start looking at others! This gets your mind off yourself and the changes YOU need to make. Keep looking inward!
• Next, count the BLESSINGS that have come from God as you have walked this path of obedience to Him first and foremost! Make a list of the blessings you already have in this new life; they are abundant!
• Finally, read Lamentations 3 – if you have truly had it harder than Jeremiah, I’d like to hear about it! Be thankful today for your blessings and for this opportunity to have one more day to live for the Lord! Seek Him today and turn away from the empty world that will never fill you up!