ADVERSITY

ISAIAH 48:10 (MSG)
Do you see what I’ve done?
I’ve refined you, but not without fire.
I’ve tested you like silver in the furnace of affliction.

LUKE 6:22-23 (ABP)
Consider yourself blessed when people push back against you because you follow me. You'll be characterized as evil, the brunt of their jokes, the object of their cursing, and even the victims of their hate. When that happens, be happy and jump for joy, for a great reward is in the heavenly pipeline flowing your direction.

SUMMARY SENTENCE
Let the hard times bless you rather than drag you down.

PRAYER
Loving God, I know that you are looking for ways to bless us -- even through adversity. I confess that I have neglected to identify the hard times with the blessings you are pouring out. I get so distracted that I'm not able to see what you're doing in my life. Give me strength to endure and eyes to see the good that you are accomplishing through the not-so-good times. I'm going to honor you through both the good and the bad times. Amen.