”1 A good name is better than a good ointment, And the day of one’s death is better than the day of one’s birth. 2 It is better to go to a house of mourning Than to go to a house of feasting, Because that is the end of every man, And the living takes it to heart. 3 Sorrow is better than laughter, For when a face is sad a heart may be happy. 4 The mind of the wise is in the house of mourning, While the mind of fools is in the house of pleasure. 5 It is better to listen to the rebuke of a wise man than for one to listen to the song of fools.” Ecclesiastes 7:1-5
Some things in life have more power to impact the spirit and heart in people to think about life in a more serious manner. “The mind of the wise is in the house of mourning”? “Sorrow is better”? “It is better to listen to a rebuke”? Yes, the “house of mourning” causes the “living to take it to heart”. Though this is the case, a vast number of people seek an escape from these important discomforts. They take a pill, tip back a bottle, or they sleep to avoid these important realities. Many people go through life trying to avoid all displeasure and grief and it is not healthy: not mentally, not emotionally, and certainly not spiritually. No matter how scary, Christians do not run from their cross. Christians do not run from the valley of the shadow of death. Christians do not avoid fighting the good fight of faith. So stay sober. Grieve with the grievers. And “consider it joy when you encounter various trials.” God will bless you through these times. Don’t avoid the valleys of life. More will be learned there and God will be with you.
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A Conquering Faith 
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