Here are some verses that many of us know by heart:

"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." (James 1:2-3, NKJV) 

"... we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope." (Romans 5:3-4, NKJV)

Now, do I enjoy "tribulations" and those "various trials?"  No.  In fact, there are times that I pray for spiritual growth for me and my family and add, "Now Lord, if possible, can we grow closer to you without having to go through suffering?"  Still, Jesus reminds us:

"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace.  In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." (John 16:33, NKJV)

So it's guaranteed that we will experience difficulties, but as we go through these hard times, we are not alone--the Lord Himself is with us!

On today's Footsteps, my friend Ken Cummins (the manager of Missionary Radio in Hopkinsville, KY) looks back on his recent trip to Cuba.  There is no doubt that the Cuban people are suffering through their lack of food, fuel, and medicine, and yet, Ken saw many Cuban believers responding with "good cheer."  There response to pain and suffering should be an inspiration to the rest of us.

Click here to learn more about TWR's outreach to Cuba

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(Santiago de Cuba Street Scene by Denys on Unsplash)