A constant struggle in my life is that of pride. About this time last year, the Lord really began to bring this to my attention. So I began to think about pride a lot. What it looks like- how it was hurting me and others- what needs to change- how Jesus was not prideful- what the opposite of it is, and so on. Through this thinking process I really began to understand how humility and weaknesses can be the opposite of pride. Also, how as a believer I should rejoice, as Paul did, in my struggles and weaknesses. Because in those times I can not take the glory and credit for things that have happened. I can only look up to God and praise Him for the good that he has done. He gets all the praise, all the credit. So now I have a new outlook on my struggles and my weakest and hardest moments. I can truly praise God through the pain and smile through the tears. I just read this morning in Luke that we are blessed when the tears flow freely because joy comes in the morning. My heart, my being is full of joy; and it isn't a result of anything I have done. It is a result of His grace and new mercies and love. Praise God!