Quotes about Adversity

If the story of Joseph teaches us anything, it is this: we have a choice. We can wear our hurt or wear our hope. We can outfit ourselves in our misfortune, or we can clothe ourselves in God's providence. We can cave in to the pandemonium of

If you see your troubles as nothing more than isolated hassles and hurts, you'll grow bitter and angry. Yet if you see your troubles as tests used by God for his glory and your maturity, then even the smallest of incidents takes on significance.

Strong Christians see God in both the good and the bad. The mature believer sees God not only in pleasures and palaces, but also in the barnyards and stables of life.

Failure is a form of quicksand. Take immediate action or you'll be sucked under.

But God will use this mess for good. In the meantime don't be foolish or naive. But don't despair either. With God's help you will get through this.

Death, failure, betrayal, sickness, disappointment—they cannot take our joy, because they cannot take our Jesus.

And now without your boat you think you will sink. You're correct. You will, for a while. Waves will sweep over you. Fear will suck you under like a Pacific riptide. But take heart, says Paul. Take heart, says Christ: "In this world you will have trouble, but be brave! I have defeated the world" (John 16:33 NCV).

You cannot control the circumstances, but you can always control what you think of them.

Joseph's pit came in the form of a cistern. Maybe yours came in the form of a diagnosis, a foster home, or a traumatic injury. Joseph

Begin by thanking God for thumps. Every thump is a reminder that God is molding you (Hebrews 12:5—8). 2. Learn from each thump. Look upon each inconvenience as an opportunity to develop patience and persistence. 3. Be aware of "thump-slump" times. Know your pressure periods. Bolster yourself with extra prayer, and don't give up. Remember, no thump is disastrous. All thumps work for good if we are loving and obeying God.

Difficult days demand decisions of faith.

How we handle our tough times stay with us a long time. (P68)