Christlikeness is a journey, not a destination. The joy is in the journey.

You see, when we talk about perfect trust, we're talking about what gives us roots, character, the stability to handle the hard times. Trusting God doesn't alter our circumstances. Perfect trust in Him changes us.

I am convinced that wise planning is good. But plans, like material possessions, must always be held loosely. Yes - always! Plan wisely, but be ready for God to rearrange things and take you along paths that may feel dangerous to you. Don't sweat it; He knows what He's doing. And He isn't obligated to inform you ... or request permission to upset your neat little agenda!

Rejoicing is clearly a spiritual command. To ignore it, I need to remind you, is disobedience.

We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations.

We continually encounter hardships. People disappoint us. We disappoint ourselves. But God is constant and compassionate. We are not alone. He cares. Against all reason, the transcendent God loves us so much that He has committed Himself to us.

Only you can determine your choice of attitude. Choose wisely, choose carefully, choose confidently!