God never gives us more than we can handle. As Christians we know this in our heads, but sometimes our hearts don't really buy into it. When we see Christians who continue to hold on to their faith in spite of difficult circumstances it inspires us, but we seldom want to be that inspiration for others.

The start of the new year has been a difficult one for my family. My wife's grandfather, who was very instrumental in her upbringing, died recently; her father had to have triple by-pass surgery, and now she is awaiting yet another hospital visit to be with me when I have surgery on the twenty third.

When she was driving to Tennessee to be with her dad she was listening to Moody broadcasting when they were doing an hour of praise. During that time she really felt God's assurance and peace. One comment the announcer made really touched her. He said that nothing is more precious to God than praise during times of affliction.

It is easy to acknowledge God when things are going well in our lives, but why don't we acknowledge Him as easily when times are tough? It is in those tough times that He is truly there, holding us together and getting us through. The next time you're thinking of getting angry, ignoring, or turning your back on God because of your circumstances, try something different. Try acknowledging His power and presence in your life. Try praising and thanking Him because you know He'll get you through somehow. If you want to know God's peace, you have to accept God's peace in both the good times and the bad.