My sister Jane shared a quote with me:
We are like a sponge. When squeezed, what comes out is what we’ve soaked in.

I was struck by the truth contained in this simple expression and was led to reflect on what kinds of things we soak in throughout the day and how these either help or hinder us when the trials of life “wring us out.”

Conversations
Attitudes
Thought patterns
Emotional responses
Music
Books/Magazines
News
Sports
TV
Facebook/Twitter

Wherever we are we soak up part of our environment, the good and the bad. And we make our own choices about many of these, often unaware of whether they are building us up for a time of trial or just filling us up for a moment, like the tasty but empty calories of a Hostess Twinkie.

How do you maintain strength and faith in the face of great trials? You soak in strength and faith each day. Neither will keep all the troubles away. But when they do come and wring you inside out, what will come out is faith and strength. It’s how God designed us to depend on Him and enjoy the life He gave us. Draw close to Him and you will be surprised by the wisdom, strength, courage, and faith you soak in.