Dear Friends

I want to write and encourage you this week to hold firm in your faith and keep trusting in Jesus.  We have been praying for you, but it isn't always easy to hold on and believe.  What I am about to share with you will help you to do this.

We often look at famous men and women and think "wouldn't it be great to be like them" but we often never consider what that person went through to become great.  We admire men like Winston Churchill, but no-one wants to go through some of the tough situations He found himself in. 

However, chances are, you are in a tough situation right now.  It is how you handle this situation (and other tough spots) that makes you the person you are or will become.

As we pray for you, and you pray for yourself.  You may be tempted to give up if answers do not come immediately.  In fact, very often, things will get worse.  If things do get worse for you, please don't panic because this is a sign that your battle is drawing to an end.

A 9 month pregnancy always goes through a trying labor just before the baby is born.  Your sporting opponent always gives his best just before you beat him.  The enemy army always seems the most impressive just before you win the battle.  If things get worse, chances are, your prayers will soon be answered.

You cannot have a victory without that battle.  You cannot be the champion without a lot of hard work defeating the opponents.  You cannot have a baby without a labor.................and very often the answers to our prayers often take time and patience to come

I would encourage you to be strong.  Don't quit on God.  God answers our prayers in 3 ways

1. YES

2. NO

3. YES BUT NO NOW....LATER.

If you do not immediately have what you need or are believeing for, do not lose heart.  Continue to seek God, and to trust Him.  THINGS WILL GET BETTER.

Finally, in the Bible, Jesus promises that He "will never leave us nor forsake us" and also that "His love will never fail"

Keep up your chin - things are looking up

Cheers

David