It’s easy to be happy when everything is going your way, but how you respond to dark and difficult times is a test of true character. In the above verse, despite their suffering, Paul and Silas praise God. They worship in the worst circumstances and inspire others by their actions.

The most important way to spend your day is to model your actions after Jesus. Every day brings new opportunities to become more like Him. To offer compassion, understanding and love, to be a blessing to those around you.

Job tried desperately to understand God’s actions. And although God responded to Job with a flurry of questions, He never directly answered him. God’s response shows that His actions, His reasons cannot be reduced to human understanding.

If a mistake or the unexpected happens—a misdialed number, a wrong turn, a missed meeting—instead of worrying or wishing it hadn’t happened, trust God and say a quick prayer of thanksgiving. Often our mistakes turn out to be a detour that brings blessings.

Sometimes God calls us to wait and not act. Our job is to continue to trust Him along the way. To surrender our will for His, to exchange our timing for His, knowing that He holds every moment in His hands.

Dr. Norman Vincent Peale said, “Give thanks daily for your blessings. Get in the habit of thinking happy thoughts. Go out of your way to make other people happy. There is your formula for real happiness and enthusiasm.”

Barnabas helped new believers by encouraging them to keep the faith during difficult times. When you are in need of encouragement, follow Barnabas’ instructions and have unshakable confidence by keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus.

Jesus promises you an abundant life. His endless blessings flow to you, filling you with His light. No matter what circumstances you face, trust that all is unfolding in the perfect way for you. Have faith!

God’s Word has a way of honing in to your weaknesses and helping you strengthen your resolve. He knows that change can be uncomfortable, and it takes bravery and strength to overcome cravings and do the right thing.