Hard Times...

"Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
-Romans 5:3-5

Perserverance: steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., esp. in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.

Hope: the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best

These are difficult times, as you are all well aware of. Businesses going bakrupt, people losing their homes/jobs, Tijuana going on a crime frenzy, and now this Swine flu is spreading quickly in Mexico. Everyone has been affected by what's been happening around the world, including myself. Its fraustrating, challenging, but if these times weren't hard... would we appreciate the victory? Would we notice the blessing that is to come?

The verse above clearly states what we should do in this type of situation. In a different version of this verse it says"patience brings trials, trials brings character, and character, hope"

Preserve your position in the Lord. Have patience and this will lead you to hope. be patient unto the Lord, as He is patient with us. It is God's time, not ours. It doesn't make sense right now, but if you wait on the Lord you know you have hope. And as the verse says, hope does NOT dissapoint us.

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that WILL be revealed in us"

-Romans 8:18

The night is darkest before dawn. (I know, i got it from Dark Knight, but it's true)

Just felt like giving some words of encouragement, if anybody needs it.