From The Crucible (by Pastor Linda Pugsley)

"Oh, if only my credit card was paid off". "Oh, if only I had a bigger house". "Oh, if only I had a better car". "Oh, if only I could retire early". Ever sing any of those songs? Well, while you're dreaming away, the sand is dropping in your life's hourglass. You are wasting precious time because dreaming and wishing cannot make you content. So when the Lord says to be content in any and every situation (Philippians 4:12), He obviously isn't talking about dreaming.

Your deepest joy, which is what every human desires and longs for, can only be fulfilled in God's presence. What you need is spiritual power within which is everlasting; not the fleeting vapor of momentary earthly pleasures.

If your joy is dependent on the circumstances around you, you're doomed to a yo-yo type existence; up and down, up and down. Get a solid life in Christ instead. He is steadfast, never moving, and the giver of vibrant joy and security no matter what your circumstances. Endure the fire…it's producing pure gold!

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