Developing perseverance.

One summer, when I was around 5 years old, my parents (specifically my Dad), decided us kids were watching too much tv and came up with the idea of having us memorize scripture to "earn" tv time.  We started in the book of James, and to this day I can quote several of the verses, and they often spring to mind when I'm facing something difficult.


² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. ⁴ Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. ⁵ If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. ⁶ But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 


We found out on Monday that my Dad has cancer.  They believe it is Lymphoma, but we don't have all the information yet.  There's a lot running through my mind, and I'm so thankful that my Dad made me memorize these verses so long ago, because I'm clinging to them right now.  My Dad is a strong man of faith, and we serve a big God, but we aren't promised and easy road, and his is about to get really rough.  I covet your prayers, for healing for my Dad, or for strength to face whatever path lies ahead.