"I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12-13

"I can't take it anymore." That's what the electric company worker said when she asked for a transfer. For 11 years she had been answering customer complaints. Many calls were angry, some abusive, others pathetic.

Most of us can sympathize with her. We live under stress, too. People disappoint us, and things disgust us. It's not only the major catastrophes that get us down. Often it's a series of small matters.

Despite all the potentially defeating factors that gang up on us, we can live victorious lives. We may tell God frankly that we can't take it without His help. We must stop challenging God's goodness and wisdom by asking why. We must concentrate on the solution. God never promised to exempt us from all the trials and tears of this life. But He does promise to be with us. We ask Him for strength, patience, and courage. We expect Him to answer our prayer. We live in such a way that we're part of His answer. God is a wise Father. He does not do for us what we can do for ourselves. Beyond that He takes over. We can depend on Him.

PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for being the way to eternal life. Help us believe that You can always make a way through life's troubles even when there seems to be no way. Amen.

(Taken from "Words of Promise," copyright 1996 (out of print), Concordia Publishing House. For information on other devotional materials, call 1-800-325-3040.)

Today's Bible Readings: 2 Chronicles 31-32    Acts 20:1-16

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