Enduring Together

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1: 2-4)

Trials and tribulations come in all forms and each one tests us in different ways. Some of us face ridicule from friends, and possibly family, for choosing to be prepared. Others deal with direct persecution for their choice. Loss of friends, colleagues, maybe even employment can be a very real aspect that many of our fellow preppers deal with. Sometimes, the road we choose to travel can feel like an extremely lonely place to be.

James reminds us that every trial is a testament of our faith and will help strengthen us as we grow. But, we are human, and trials hurt. Our soul can ache with sorrow, even when we know we are bathed in the love of the Father. Because of this, as a community, we must be able to support each other. Our words and actions have the power to lift others up when they are faltering, just as they can do for us. Jesus recognized this human characteristic and encouraged us to worship and fellowship together. He reminded us that “where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them,” (Matthew 18:20). When we group together, we truly can consider it joy to stand up to pressures and ridicule from those who do not understand. We can carry on with our choices and revel in the peace we will feel in our quiet moments with God when He whispers, “well done my good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23).

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Today in Christian History

May 6th

1432 – Flemish artist Jan van Eyck, 61, finished the altarpiece for St. John’s Church in Ghent, Belgium. Van Eyck’s work is noted for its descriptive realism and intensive color.

1527 – Forty thousand mercenaries, hired by Cardinal Pompeo Colonna, sacked the city of Rome, destroying two-thirds of the houses. They butchered clergy and laity alike, and forced Clement VII to flee, disguised

1835 – Birth of John T. Grape, American Methodist layman. He composed a number of hymn tunes during his life, including ALL TO HRIST, to which we sing today, “Jesus Paid It All.”

1955 – Responding to a letter received from a child, English pologist C. S. Lewis wrote: ‘God knows quite well how hard we find t to love Him more than anyone or anything else, and He won’t be Angry with us as long as we are trying. And He will help us.’

1986 – The Rev. Donald E. Pelotte, 41, was ordained in Gallup, New Mexico — the first American Indian to be made a Roman Catholic bishop in the U.S.

Source for Today in Christian History: www.studylight.org