Good Morning!! I believe that difficult times can help us to grow in our understanding of God. During hard times, God opens our eyes to see that joy does not come from a life without trials or heartaches. Joy comes from deep, abiding faith that increases as we mature in our relationship with God,...our Savior, Jesus Christ.

"Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning"—Psalm 30:5 (NRSV)

As I grow older and look back on life, I clearly see that everyone has good times, as well as times of grief, discouragement, and hardship. However, there is one constant in all this: When Christ is at the center of our lives, His love and patience see us through any and every trial.

When the strength of the LORD is the source of your joy,
....the joy of the LORD will also be the source of your strength.

Heavenly Father, open us to Your joy,...in good times and in hard times. Help us to cling to the promise that You are always with us. Amen.

"Wealth doesn't nessisarily mean blessed."