Struggles

                      Life is unfortunately full of struggles. We all go through seasons of life that just stink. And when you are going through a struggle it is really easy to get depressed and want to give up. Trust me, I know. Lately I've had a really long and hard struggle with my job. Everyday it seems to get worse and worse. When I come home I just feel lousy. But I've come to realize something. Yes, life is full of struggles. But it is also filled with blessings intertwined in the struggles. While I never want to go to work and have bad things happen,  I also want to go to college. This job is helping pay for my dreams. God is always on your side. Yesterday I worked a 8 and a half hour shift and afterwards I went to the campground where some of my relatives were camping. I felt really tired and down. But as we were sitting around the campfire, people just started singing worship songs. The next thing I know almost everyone in our group was just in a time of worship. It was incredible. And then my grandma said something to me that really spoke to me to. She said that when she got her first job her Pastor told her that anyone can give up when it gets hard, but it takes someone special to fight through the hard times. Right now, I am going through a hard time. But it is not permanent. I still have a ton of reasons to be happy. Whenever you are having a struggle, don't focus on that. Focus on the good things on your life. Pray, because nobody knows what you are going through like God does. He is on your side whether you think so or not. Hang in there. Don't give up.

God Bless,

David

 

Noises

             In life we have so many influences that compete for our attention. Our friends, the music we listen to, the things we read, all help dictate what we think about. And what we think about will eventually become our actions. I recently got a job, and I am one of the only ones who does not swear all the time. Being around that kind of environment is definitely not that fun. For 8 hours I have all that junk going into my head. Maybe you are in a similar situation. Here’s how I counter-react that. As I drive to and from work I listen to positive, Christian music. And I do not just do that because I am a “church-boy.” I do it because the music that we listen to directly effects our thoughts. I get those songs stuck in my head and listen to them in my head when everyone is cussing and stuff at work. I also think about why I got a job in the first place. I’m saving up for college and saving money for Speed the Light, which gives money to missionaries to help them with their jobs. So I really do not know what you are going through today. But if you find yourself getting trapped in all this negative muck, make sure that you find something positive to help you. Whether its good music, or talking to a friend, find a way to focus your mind on positive things. I’m praying for you. Don’t give up. God is going to use you for something great. Stay strong.
God Bless,
David