... before I announce the winner, I want to address one of the comments left on my blog Wednesday:

Samantha wrote – “i was wondering if you could answer a question. Um, you mentioned people who shine God's light through clouds... how do i do that?”

I have struggled most of my life wondering that very thing, because we are encouraged to rejoice in the lord ALWAYS. Philippians 4:4

Another verse in the first chapter of James says, “ Consider it pure joy… whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete…”

I do not like the idea of having to go through trials in order to become mature and complete. But recently I have come to the conclusion that, “in this life there will be trials.” I might as well face it and accept it.

Because I want the best God has to give me, I have begun to take Him at His word.

If He suggests that we rejoice, He must know what’s best. So with His help, I try.

I’m not always successful, often failing, but I keep trying…

So I have been digging around in God’s Word and this is what I learned:

Back to Samantha’s question, “How do I do that?” Allow God’s light to shine in the midst of clouds.

I believe God shines through our lives, even when we feel like we are being sacrificed. He shines when we

Thank God by offering a sacrifice of thanksgiving (Psa. 116:17).

Praise Him even though we don’t feel like it. (Heb. 13:15; Psa. 50:23).

Use our special abilities and talents to serve Him and others instead of centering on ourselves: (Phil 4:18);

Finally, maybe this is the first step we should take, asking God to forgive, telling Him our actions have broken us: (Psa. 51:17).

I also believe that we put Him and others first, even though we are frantic to protect ourselves: Romans 12:1-2:

So, in a nutshell I have learned to praise Him, thank Him, and serve others to get my mind off myself.

Guess what – IT WORKS! His plan for our lives is a divine design. I am amazed at how He removes my fear, dread, despair, and agony when I sing a song of praise to Him.

Try it and be amazed!

Watch the Son break through your clouds!

Oh and the winner of the drawing for my books is :

Stacey – I drew the ninth entry – 2009, choosing ‘9’ because we are in the year 2009! Cograts Stacey. I left a comment on your blog so you would know how to contact me with your address.