The real test of true faith is not how successful we are, but how surrendered we are.

I received this note in an email from my sister-in-law and just had to share it with you all...

"I just read this story of a man from the 1600s, named Blaise Paschal.  He
was a brilliant mathematician and scientist and has done lots of things that
are still valued today.  Anyway, he wanted to write a Christian apology for
the church of the day.  He figured it would take 10 years and was very
committed to the project.  He spent 2 years writing up his notes and then he
became sick and never fully recovered.  He prayed, "Prayer for the right use
of illnesses."  Instead of writing he devoted his life to the poor. 

The
author says this, "As I read his biography I am moved to tears by the heart
of this man who was so surrendered to God.  He surrendered the glory of a
particular service to God.  Everything was placed on the altar and there was
no bitterness at all when God decided to keep it.  Paschal just kept serving
the Lord.  God, make me like that man!  It has taken me some time to learn
that the real test of true faith is not how successful we are, but how
surrendered we are.""