August 29th, 2025

Adversity tests a man’s character, his ability to hang in there when the going gets tough. Success, on the other hand, tests a man’s integrity, his ability to remain true to himself, to remain morally and ethically pure. “When adversity strikes,” as Chuck Swindoll points out, “life becomes rather simple. Our need is to survive. But when prosperity occurs, life gets complicated. And our needs are numerous, often extremely complex. Invariably, our integrity is put to the test.”

“The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but a man is tested by the praise he receives.”

— Proverbs 27:21 (NIV 1984)

Lord, prepare me for whatever the future may bring. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.