I would say I loved this book, but I'm not sure how much I love conviction!! ;) Needless to say, this author has done it again for me with her powerful Christian encouragement and Christ-like focus.

Christians are not exempt from troubles. In fact, we’re promised troubles for the very fact that we follow Christ (John 15:20). Yet often, our responses to the trials in our lives reveal that we think we deserve something better. I am always blessed when I open one of George’s books. This was no exception. I was going through a couple of rough weeks, and I needed this book to remind me of the truths about trials. Too often, I can feel like a victim, focus on my own pain, and justify my own sinful reactions. This book reminded me to consider it all joy, and gave practical ways to do that. Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. (1 Peter 4:12–13) In the book of 1 Peter, we’re exhorted to respond to the difficulties in our lives in a completely foreign and counter-cultural way: Be committed to a body of believers. God does not mean for us to endure suffering on our own. When the Israelites were fighting Amalek, they were only victorious as long as Moses was raising up his arms. But he grew weary in the battle and needed the help of Aaron and Hur to hold up his arms when he lost strength (Exodus 17:8–13). Who will come to your aid when the road gets tough?I loved how she used 1 Corinthians 10:13 ("There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.") as a theme verse, and I was so uplifted by that promise over and over again in each chapter. This reality raises the question of how we deal with such hardships when they arise. Will we shut down in discouragement when things do not go our way or persevere in faith through whatever trial is on our path? In Elisabeth Elliot’s classic book Keep a Quiet Heart, she reminds us, “When Paul and Silas were in prison, they prayed and sang. It isn’t troubles that make saints, but their response to troubles.” Troubled Grumblers Look for reasons to rejoice. My natural reaction to suffering is to feel sorry for myself and complain. But when I can catch myself heading down that downward spiral, I combat it with making a simple list of five things to be grateful for. Remembering God’s blessings can help us keep the right perspective, even in the midst of hardships.

Pray for perseverance. Call upon the only one who can sustain you with grace in the midst of your difficulty. Pray “at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. . . . Keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints” (Ephesians 6:18).Elizabeth George is bestselling author and national speaker dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. For over 30 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth has helped countless men and women: Suffering does not exempt us from doing good for others. Keep reaching out, keep praying for others, keep looking for ways to bless and encourage someone else in the midst of their difficult time. Rejoice in Hard Things Elizabeth also encourages women through her radio broadcast, “A Minute for Busy Women,” featured on Christian radio stations across America and at www.OnePlace.com. She is also a regular keynote speaker at women’s conferences and retreats.