Lessons in Adversity
Prayer brings power to endure. Those who are older are a source of wisdom for young parents and for children and grandchildren.

Written by Chuck Swindoll, these encouraging devotional thoughts are published seven days per week.
Prayer brings power to endure. Those who are older are a source of wisdom for young parents and for children and grandchildren.
Before we get better acquainted with Joseph, let's take a quick glance at some background information.
It has been my observation that even here most folks are not free; they have not learned to accept and enjoy the grace that has come to us in Jesus Christ.
I never have been able to understand why everyone in the church looks so serious during the offering. Wouldn't it be great if when the offering plates are passed in church next Sunday that instead of grim looks, stoic silence, and soft organ music you heard laughter?
Grace releases and affirms. It doesn't smother. Grace values the dignity of individuals. It doesn't destroy. Grace supports and encourages. It isn't jealous or suspicious.
One characteristic of a grace awakening ministry deserves special attention: release from past failures. A ministry of grace doesn't keep bringing up the past for the purpose of holding it over people.
Having cleansed our hearts of the debris of inward corruptions and the dust of sin's domination, God is now daily at work awakening grace within us, perfecting our character and bringing it to completion.
Let me offer several comments that may help you handle future disagreeable times in a gracious manner.
In every disagreement there are the same two ingredients: (a) an issue and (b) various viewpoints. The issue is usually objective and involves principles. The viewpoints are subjective and involve personalities.
There will be no denominations in heaven, no categories of Christians—only the vast company of the saints, and only then will there be perfect harmony of heart and complete unanimity of agreement.