Last night I shared on FaceBook that I was “Feeling a little overwhelmed and depressed” because I have a lot going on and would appreciate prayers. Many responded and a couple reached out, and for all those who showed their care I am encouraged and eternally grateful. Part of the reason I believe that I go through what I do is that it just a strategy of Satan to derail me. In recent events I have been verbally attacked, shown disrespectful behavior, had slanderous accusations made against my character, my ability to teach has been questioned, and I have been told that I am not qualified to be a Pastor much less an elder. I read a note and borrowed it for myself and put above the note, “Note to self….and a reminder that it is all by the grace of God.” The note read “Dear me, I am so proud of the endless hours you put in to heal and grow. Love, me.” To which some responded, “Selfish”. My family and/or I have been going through different physical, emotional, mental, but most of all spiritual battles. As I look to why this all may be happening is the changes that have been made in the lives of those around us. We have a family member that has suffered with substance abuse since childhood and now as a 30 year-old-adult he is 18 months clean. I am involved in a Life Recovery group called, “Breaking Chains” and also a men’s spiritual support group entitled, “Iron Sharpens Iron” where lives are being transformed. The hardest part to deal with is how the children are affected. We have special needs in our home and we have lost therapy workers, and even agencies for one reason or another. The individuals for the most part were non-Christian and we were able to share the love of Jesus with each and every one, and now we are in limbo, preventing the children from even being able to go to church. On Monday nights I have the honor to be able to minister to about 75 boys ages 5-17, as well as about 25 adults. I get to teach, encourage, and hopefully strengthen them and draw them closer to Jesus. Last night I went over *Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything [every circumstance and situation] by prayer and petition (definite requests) with thanksgiving, continue to make your [specific] requests known to God. 7 And God’s peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.* Last night I tried with all that I had to put this into practice and it didn’t happen, today I will try again. Even though I feel like my life is full of trials, tribulations, turmoil, and even failure, I pray that I am able to say boldly with truth and sincerity  “I’d rather be in a million pieces at His feet than a million miles from His presence.”