This past year has been especially trying for our family. However, I am learning that when we are “pressed” (like olives are pressed to create oil) the oils will flow out from us…. And there is either good oil oozing from us, or nasty rancid oil. Our character is displayed in times of stress, hardships and troubles… God tells us to be thankful in all things… to find Joy and strength in Him…. To trust in Him… To have faith that HE will see you through. When we are pressed, and the stresses of this world are all around us, we will either shine through them, or we will become angry, hurt, bitter, or filled with self-pitty. We can choose to hate, or we can choose to love. We can choose anger, contention, and discord; or we can choose kindness, patience, and gentleness. We can choose to argue and dispute our point, or we can choose peace. We can choose to be downcast and heavy burdened, or we can choose JOY. ~ God says: “You will know my people by their fruit”…. The things “pressing” in on you are only a test. People filled with the Spirit of God will practice Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. Tests are a good thing... they help us to see where we need more practice, and what we need to improve upon. I'm thankful God is a God of Grace, and second chances.... The tests are not easy but He helps us through.... "He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion."
