None of us can control what happens to us in life, but we do get to choose our response. We can choose whether we will waste our pain or learn from it. We can use every painful experience as a ministry opportunity. We can use both the pain you've already gone through and the pain you are currently going through to help others who are experiencing the same painful circumstances. 

Everyone is living with some pain. Pain is the great equalizer because it is indiscriminate. Pain ignores status, wealth, religion, education, age, or gender. Loss is a universal common denominator. Personal pain will increase your sensitivity to others' pain, deepen your empathy for their suffering, and enable you to connect with people you otherwise have little in common. 

Believers and unbelievers experience trials, and they also learn obedience through painful situations. Situations may be physical, relational, mental, emotional, financial, social, or spiritual. Every problem presents an opportunity to grow in Christlikeness. Finding purpose in your pain is an essential part of healing - every time we choose what’s right when tempted, we grow more like Christ. 

Life’s journey brings unexpected detours and unwelcome delays. But do not allow your current situations to block your closeness with God. David says in Psalm 118:5-6, I called to the LORD in distress; the LORD answered me and put me in a spacious place. The LORD is for me; I will not be afraid. 

Thank you for your unwavering financial support for our ministry. Your contributions are a form of giving and a vital part of our mission. We sincerely appreciate your commitment and your role in our church's journey. Please continue to mail your checks to Payne Chapel A.M.E Church, 2701 Lee St, Houston, Texas 77026, or go to Payne Chapel AME Church – Houston, Texas - through Givelify.com. 

Finally, I would like to leave you with this thought for meditation; “A happy life consists not in the absence, but in the mastery of hardships.” — Helen Keller. 

Blessings, 

Kevin L. Bullock, Sr. - Pastor