Out of the Ashes takes readers on an exciting and thought provoking journey; one that answers many of life's questions relating to, "Why me? Why now? Why this particular storm?" Although none of us relish these trials of our faith, in them, God is reshaping our lives for His service. Since the fall in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:17-19), every single person who has ever lived has at one time or another endured a season of trouble, heartache and pain. However, now that you can look back on that mountain of struggle and uncertainty, you better understand that it was only there to make you stronger and not weaker. And for that, you should say a hearty, "Amen " (Psa. 106:48). Although the trials may have unsettled and discomfited your flesh; eons ago the Lord set limits on what the Devil could and could not do in your life (Gen. 22:1, I Pet. 1:7). And while our disobedience or obedience can lengthen or shorten the test(s), make no mistake, the Lord remains in complete control As we begin this journey, please carefully consider the following rhetorical questions, 1. Are you a born again son or daughter of the Living God or a hireling, and 2. If you lost every earthly possession except the shirt on your back, would you remain committed to do the Will of the Lord? As you ponder your responses, I leave you with a few quotes I shared at my friend's naval retirement ceremony in November of 2004. "Man's opinions do not define God's expectations" "Failure in and of itself is not an end, only opportunity for a new beginning" "Just as we are born into this world kicking, screaming and violently protesting, we often leave the same way, kicking, screaming and violently protesting"