Consider it pure joy, my brothers, 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, not lacking anything.

James 1:2-4

Have you ever prayed for something that you were almost too scared to ask for? I have. Like asking God to increase my faith. This is a request that He is guaranteed to grant. It is also a request that will put you in a situation that you will have to rely on your faith if you are to do God's will.

I have recently asked for increased faith. Soon after my petition, I began to be attacked on a daily basis. As my strength began to diminish, I realized that the enemy was working through people around me -- trying to tear me down. Knowing that this is an opportunity to use my faith and is, in fact, just what I asked for, helps me to stand strong.

A big part of me wants to be vengeful and retaliate against those who I feel are deliberately wronging me. But knowing that God's will is for me to 'love my enemies' and remain even-keeled through tough situations, helps me to reflect Christ through these situations. It is very hard to do, but I know that relying on God's strength will pull me through and in the end -- will increase my faith. Please pray for me!