James 1:2-4 (ESV)

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

I found what I really enjoyed about working at camp was leading cabin devotions. Then I HAD to focus on a devotion instead of just letting myself be distracted. I also have to write things down to stay on task and think clearly.
I'm deciding to leave my old lifestyle behind me this summer. It's scary; what if things get really difficult and I am forced to trust God instead of trying to take over myself? What if I get left feeling broken and helpless and powerless to do anything about it?
Life is great right now. What happens when I meet these trials over the next year? Can I really experience JOY through them? To be strong enough to do that, it starts with trusting God here, now. Can I do that? Am I seriously changing my lifestyle or was this a decision I made on impulse because it seemed like a good thing to do?
My little cousin is with me for the summer. As I was reminded by a friend today, she watches everything I do- very carefully. How does she see me living my life? Am I a model of someone she can look up to, or am I an example of someone she wouldn't want to be like?
Working at camp I was careful to set a good example, that is supposed to carry over into real life. Jenny Flew said during a staff meeting that we are all examples for life now. That took me by surprise, but it shouldnt have; I still look up to the people who were counselors when I was young, there is still talk of old staff members and where they've ended up now. That should really go on the applications, though. Disclaimer: working on staff makes you an example for LIFE.
Some of my friends are going through a hard time. Some have fallen away from Christ, some are dealing with heartaches and abuses. I need to get over my selfishness and walk closely with God so that I can show Christ's love and be there for my friends when they need me. I can't tell them to count these trials as joy, when I'm not doing that very same thing.