"Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world." (1 Pet. 5:9)

There is a story about a young man was at the end of his rope. Seeing no way out, he dropped to his knees and said, "Lord, I can't go on; I have too heavy a cross to bear." The Lord replied, "My son, if you can't bear its weight, just place your cross inside this room, and then open that other door and pick out any cross you wish." The man was filled with relief. "Thank you, Lord," he sighed. He did as he was told, and upon entering the other door, he saw many crosses, some so large the tops were not visible. After searching for a a very long time, he then spotted a tiny cross leaning against a far wall. "I'd like that one, Lord," he said. The Lord replied, "My son, that is the very cross you just brought in!"

When life's problems seem overwhelming, it helps to look around and see what other people are bearing. We may consider ourselves fortunate. Many of our brethren, in spite of overwhelming hardships and difficulties, continue to faithfully serve the Lord. Let us be encouraged by their examples.