Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope. — Romans 5:3-4

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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all! These last few days were great days at turkey camp : we caught up with some fantastic birds, we set the hook on some amazing bass, and Chuck, Royce and I enjoyed some amazing fellowship with each other. It was a blessing of a trip. Whether we were sitting on the front porch or throwing lures at the fish or gathered around the table, we constantly chatted about life and challenges and storms …… and the love of the Lord. It got me to thinking of Romans 5:3-4. When the storm hits us, the first and sometimes only question we ask God is “When will I get out of this storm?” Instead, what if we asked the Lord, “What will I get out of this storm?” Y’all, the Lord didn’t tell us that He’d keep the storms from happening. He told us that He’d walk beside us in those storms. These storms build character, endurance and hope. As odd as it sounds, it’s during these storms that we need to rejoice in the fact that the Lord is with us each and every step of the way. Today, bring those struggles to the Lord. Ask Him to walk alongside you as you battle. We weren’t meant to battle alone, y’all. Give your struggles to the Lord, folks. Let go, and Let God. It’s that simple in my mind.

Have a great day, folks. Love the Lord, and love each other!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels

Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH

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God, You are well acquainted with my struggles, and they don't scare or shock You. Instead, You seem to view them as opportunities to strengthen me and show off Your glory through me. So today, I choose to bring my struggles to You. I will rejoice even as I encounter hard times because I know You are refining me and giving me the strength to endure. Thank You, Lord! In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

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#gbdevotional