I can't tell you how many times I have cried out, "I can't take it anymore. It's just too hard." There have probably been too many times to count; yet, I'm still here. If you are reading this or hearing me speak; you know that you are still here too. It's not really about whether or not you can take it any more. You are, and you're going to make it all the way through to the end. The question you need to ask yourself is, "In what manner am I going to make it?" Are you going to make it by dragging your feet and whining all the way, or are you going to make it in a way that brings God glory. Do you want to just barely survive or do you want to prosper in your pain? I know some of you are thinking right now, "How about NO pain at all?" Unfortunately, life brings with it both good and bad. How we respond to the bad is up to us. It all begins with a choice. Today, choose to face impossible situations with courage and faith. Choose to reach out to God.

Once upon a time, there were a hundred princesses all gathered in one room. They ate and drank, chatted and prayed. They enjoyed their times together away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But they had no idea of their royal heritage because of a spell put upon all daughters of the earth by a wicked witch. It was during a time of innocence before scribes recorded such things as dates. The King and his daughter were enjoying a quiet time together in the palace. Unbeknownst to them a wicked witch watched their laughter and joy as they shared the events of their day. Alone in the dark corner, the witch was filled with jealousy at their easy smiles and companionship. Why should the princess enjoy such luxurious settings or restful fellowship? Unable to continue watching, the witch slithered away, keeping to the shadows to avoid notice. Once back in her den under the earth, away from the shining moon and twinkling stars, the witch brooded over what she had seen and heard. Hatred, pride and jealousy burned within her heart until only one thought consumed her. Why should she live in a den under the earth and the princess in the courts of the King? The thought soon twisted and changed shape into another. What could she do about it?