I think it is wise for us to recognize that even the Son of God was tempted just as we are, yet He overcame. As He overcame, so too can we. This post was very timely for me, as I've been teetering on the brink of self-pity for quite some time, lonely, ostracized, with everything seeming to be extra difficult for me compared to others. Sometimes I resent the difficulties I have to walk through and strike the Rock without even realizing what I'm doing.

Today was my birthday and I always think of my mom on my birthday. She had an incredibly difficult life. A large part of her difficulties came from the fact that she had a wooden leg. She pushed through every challenge that came her way and I can't recall a time where she complained about it. Her example, and the example I've seen of others who are hindered from normal function in some way, is that those who recognize their handicaps know they have to push even harder. They live that mindset all day, every day, whereas most people take their normal abilities for granted. I hope to see the wisdom in God's plans for putting me through difficulties, that I might emerge stronger in His Spirit instead of falling on the ground wishing I were dead, or worse, finding myself far too comfortable and complacent.