Difficulties in life do happen to us all, but we must remember that they are temporary. Our attitude and outlook so often can be the deciding factor, not whether a trial or problem will come our way, but how it will affect us and how soon we can get through it. Jesus said, “In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

If we do not learn to let things go, our lives will begin to look like we are hoarders, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The scripture tells us, if we are in Christ, “old things are passed away and behold all things are new.”

The only two things that being a person of character and integrity takes is, reliance upon God and a backbone. Though telling the truth is not for the faint of heart, it is what reveals your heart and is pleasing to the Lord.

Psalm 46:1 tells us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” We do not have to struggle to get by on our own. He is present, aka with us, and desires to help us, if we will let Him.

You have heard it said, “Don’t put your eggs all in one basket.” We must have a contingency plan and be prepared for the unexpected that will inevitably come into our lives. The principles we live by should become second nature to us.

We do not need to look any further. The Word of God has the recipe, that gives us the perfect blend of ingredients that we need to live a successful and joyful life. So, why not enjoy!

Scripture admonishes us to be quick to listen but slow to speak. Being a ‘know it all’, or as we used to say, a ‘nosey parker’, is not attractive. We must let our voices be used for good and allow the word of God have the final say.

Though we are all human and experience fear at times, we should not allow them to identify us. The Lord is delighted when we ask Him to deliver us from them, because He already took them upon himself at Calvary.

God is present, not just a ‘Higher Power’ watching over us from a distance. When we call on the name of Jesus, he hears us and will respond. We see miracles happening in our lives daily and we should proclaim it! Shout from the roof tops, use your voice and influence, so that everyone will know how great our God is!

Intimacy in marriage is so close and special, that scripture uses this analogy to describe how close our relationship with the Lord can be. Both should be cherished and nurtured daily and are well worth the effort.