"Aha"

Usually my tendency is to think in terms of all or nothing rather than some thing's better than nothing or appreciate the process. Here's a visual - a light switch has an on and off switch (all or nothing), a dimmer switch could be added that would gradually brighten as healthy/better behavior increases....then "aha" the light bulb is totally on, totally bright. This is what we do when we allow Jesus to take control more and more of our life beginning with our thoughts. When trials, suffering and conflict emerge (don't forget life isn't fair) the light can become dim. We can choose to confront it, realize our utter weakness and give ourselves to God. Through our willingness to accept we can become something in response and the light becomes brighter.
We need to know God, not just know about God. Another visual - we know about electricity but until we plug in the electrical cord we don't really know about the power for illuminating the light bulb. (okay, a little stretch with this one) Really connecting (cord) with God (power source) makes it possible to live with courage and joy in adversity. We can touch everything and still be connected to nothing. Just as Peter walked on water (Matthew 14:29-30) when he recognized and focused on Jesus, alone, we can bend with the storm and not snap. If we allow circumstances to overwhelm us we no longer recognize Jesus. We are how we act not just what we believe. My one word (earlier 2010 post) for 2010 remains "peace". "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7) "Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:21-23)