[fusion_text]For anyone who either imagines, thinks, or teaches, that coming to the Christian faith is one big party that leads to constant health, wealth and comfortable circumstances – here is an actual testimony from one of The Lord’s greatest servants. His name was Paul.

While writing of his experiences to friends and members of a church that he himself had started, He said this:

‘In labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often…five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness often, in hunger and thirst, in fasting often, in cold and nakedness – besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.’ (2nd Corinthians 11:23-28).

Today, from TV sets, to bookstores and DVD’s etc. – there seems to be a message promising everyone an easy road, prosperity, smooth sailing, chocolates and candies, and a rose garden existence, free from all trials, cares and hardships. And of course – it’s all for sale.

However, God teaches us in His word, that in this life, there will be trials, hardships, tribulation and difficulties – along with blessings and joy, victory, peace and even miracles. This is simply called – the Truth.

The true God of Heaven, not the one on TV, or in the ‘bookstores’, tells us the fullness, the ‘real deal’ of what we are to expect in this life. He does not candy coat the daily realities we face. What He does do, however, is give us the strength and wisdom necessary to face each day with courage, faith, confidence, and hope – a hope that does not disappoint. And the best part is – it’s not for sale – everything God promises and provides is FREE!

Paul suffered heavily for following Jesus. He also walked in the fullness of joy, experienced miracles, and helped change the world. He was one of the greatest men of God that ever lived. Down through the centuries, His life has inspired untold millions and millions of people toward – and in – their faith, in God. Paul’s life, expresses the true Christian life. Real living, breathing, serving, doing, giving, hurting, helping, smiling, suffering, building, impacting, and demonstrating true faith in God.

Something to think about.

God Bless You and Remember, ‘GOD’S LOVE NEVER FAILS’.[/fusion_text]