The other day we hiked the Bristlecone forest where the trees are over 4000 years old. One reason to explain their longevity is because the harsh conditions at 10,000 ft with high wind and snow have deepened their roots and made them strong. Adversity can be sweet or sour depending on how we respond to it.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face
But we object, “Jesus lived in the will of God and look what happened to Him, He was crucified. ” The God of all creation answers, “Yes, look at Him resurrected, seated at my right hand.” Even a child understands what it means to have ultimate victory.
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Ps.
I have never known a day of hunger. Abundance surrounds me every day. As God is gracious to me, let me be gracious with all that He has entrusted
“Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.” Conversations Within” ts Jul 19, 2026
Once we share our judgments about others, we can never take them back, which means we may affect the judgments that others have of us. We all make judgments and they are necessary to live wisely. “A wise man once said, “nothing.” Keep your judgments to yourself.
“Judge not, that you be not judged." Jesus
I read a post that said “Life is hard, make it harder and buy a boat.” It is common knowledge that God uses hard times to nurture in us the character of a mature inner life. Plug away with an enduring attitude. Learn to enjoy and appreciate the process that develops spiritual health and vitality.
“Consider it pure joy… whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1 Conversations Within” Jul 17, 2026 ts
