Life Is A Big Test!

I went to church this morning and had many opportunities to visit with friends.  One thing I found in common is that something was hurting them in their life.  I've had two friends specifically on my mind since our conversations and it's sad to say that life is definitely a big test of courage and strength!  There are so many things and loved ones that seem to test our love everyday and we say to ourselves "What did I do to deserve this?"  We find that the ones that love us the most hurt us the most!  Satan knows how to knock us down, I've lived some of their same struggles, but we have to always remember that Jesus always has our back during any crisis that may arise.  Satan will use our weekest flaws against us so we will hurt and lose our self-worth, he knows every trick in the book!  Don't fall for it!  Remember that God will not allow us to endure any more than we are able, and if we persevere in our struggles, we come out stronger and with a new perspective on things.  Life does seem like a big test of our self-worth with the way others treat us, by the things we own, if we have a great job, you name it, our society has created the monster and when I speak of society, I'm referring to satan's influence on our culture.  He stands back and laughs at us trying to keep up with the Jones' and working endlessly to pay for things, knowing that if we have all our time filled up with worldly things, we won't have time to serve God.  So just remember who the real enemy is here, don't fall into the trap.  Learn to do without things, spend more time with your family and love people unconditionally!  That will help you deal with the stresses of life.

Also, remember not to be the martyr.  You have the right to do things for yourself (within reason) God wants us happy and we don't have to be pennyless to be a good christian.  Just remember you can enjoy life yourself.  Moms and Dads both need to relax, recharge, and renew.  Don't feel bad when you do something good for yourself!!!!!!And remember to do something nice in God's honor also!  Take care!