Oftentimes things happen to test our faith walk. When these times come in my life, I ask myself if it is well in my soul. The Holy Spirit reveals to me when I need to take care of something I have done that is not pleasing to him. If I'm in the clear, I move forward, knowing the Grace he offers me as he walks with me and talks with me.

The Bible teaches me to do to others as I want to be done to me. This was instilled in me from an early age, and I do wake up each day asking God to allow me the opportunity to offer equality to all in my path, from my heart, and in my service.

Looking to the life of Paul for direction, I am reminded that he spoke of a thorn in his side, an irritation. Reading 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

So, I am grateful for the lessons learned through every thorn-filled circumstance. God delivers me pure and righteous, not better than but better for ministry; living my faith journey.

God does not ignore my pleas for help; He tells me, "I give you everything you need to come out victoriously from this situation. My Grace is My power given to you in the middle of your weakness. When you are weak on your own, I am strong in you! So, stop whining, stand up and use the weapons and power I have provided you!"