[marshmallow]

He actually talks about and personally demonstrates a surrendered life, a committed life to the Lord, and living by faith in God's grace

The cross is a symbol of suffering. I'm reminded of a passage from the Book of Wisdom; “If you want to know God, prepare yourself for an ordeal.”

According to Joel......"prepare yourself for the good times".

[Jim W N]

I'm reminded of a passage from the Book of Wisdom; “If you want to know God, prepare yourself for an ordeal.” According to Joel......"prepare yourself for the good times".

I don't know about the "Book of Wisdom," but I know the Bible says, "Looking unto Jesus...who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross..."Hebrews 12:2. Joel emphasizes that the hard times now are meant for our good and for a future blessing God has in store. Totally scriptural.

[CyberAnt]

Hmmmm ..?? Ordeal huh??

Then how come the Bible says, “Beloved, I wish above ALL THINGS that thou mayest prosper and be in good health”.

That doesn’t sound like an “ordeal” to me ..??

[webstersII]

“I’m reminded of a passage from the Book of Wisdom;”

The ‘Book of Wisdom’???? What the heck is that? Whatever it is, it doesn’t have the authority of scripture.