we may also experience times when God stays silent and all the Bible's promises seem glaringly false. ON MY TRAVELS OVERSEAS I have noticed a striking difference in the wording of prayers. Christians in affluent countries tend to pray, "Lord, take this trial away from us!" I have heard prisoners, persecuted Christians, and some who live in very poor countries pray instead, "Lord, give us the strength to bear this trial." Paradoxically, difficult times may help nourish faith and strengthen bonds.