Thank God for this precious privilege. I may not have a choice about the hardships that come my way, but I can choose my response to them. I can choose joy, joy in knowing that God uses such to make me a better person, to deepen the presence of Jesus in me.
“Consider it pure joy… whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. “ James 1 Conversations Within” ts Jul 27, 2026
I like decisions that are final. How precious and peaceful is a good decision, one you do not need to re-visist and rehash simply because you know it was the right one. Make your decisions, not based only on desire, or feelings, but on what you know is good, right and true.
“Follow me.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts
It pays to give thought, not just to how we walk, but where we walk. Wisdom teaches us, “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers.” Jesus ate with sinners to share His worldview not adopt theirs.
“A prudent man gives thought to his steps.” Prov.14 Conversations Within” ts Jul 23, 2026
When it comes down to it, I must take responsibility for myself. Blaming God asking, “Why did you make me this way?” will not mount an adequate defense when He wants to know why I dropped the ball. God will forgive a foolish decision that cost me my arm, but I doubt He will grow me a new one.
“A person’s own
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
