Today is Tuesday, October 12th, 2004; Karen's Korner #392

Today I am going to share for the last time, one of the writings in the booklet, "30 Thoughts for Victorious Living" by Joel Osteen. I have only seen Osteen several times on television. He is a young man, probably under 40, who is now the senior pastor of a church in Houston, Texas. There was a story about him in our daily newspaper several weeks ago. He took over the duties of a church where his dad was a minister in 1999. At the time, Joel had worked in his father's church, but always behind the scenes. He had not been to seminary. At the time of his dad's death, he believed God wanted him to take over his father's role. The church was already good sized, but now it is the largest congregation in the United States.

Here is thought #5:

"Stand Strong During Adversity"

"Put on the full armor of God, so when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground.  (Ephesians 6:13)

We all face challenges and difficult times. God doesn't send these storms, but it's in times of difficulty that we grow and become stronger. It is an opportunity to allow God's Word to come alive in your life and see you through to victory. You can't run from evrything that's hard in your life and expect God to deliver you immediately. God uses these challenges to stretch you and enlarge your vision.

Remain faithful during your time of adversity. Make up your mind to serve God no matter what comes against you, and God will honor you. Fight the good fight of faith. Remember, God will not waste anything you go through in life. You are growing.You are maturing. You are being prepared for promotion. Simply remain faithful and fight life through. In due season, in God's appointed time. He will promote you to new levels of victory, and you'll live that abundant life that He has promised you!

"Heavenly Father, thank You for making me strong through adversity. I thank You that because You are faithful to me, I can be faithful to You. Give me Your wisdom to make the right decisions today and the strength to stand no matter what life brings."


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