“For two years, scientists sequestered themselves in an artificial environment called Biosphere 2. Inside their self-sustaining community, the Biospherians created a number of mini-environments, including a desert, rain forest, even an ocean. Nearly every weather condition could be simulated except one, wind. Over time, the effects of their windless environment became apparent. A number of acacia trees bent over and even snapped. Without the stress of wind to strengthen the wood, the trunks grew weak and could not hold up their own weight.” (Jay Akkerman) We must remember that the wind of adversity strengthens our resolve to rely on the Lord and not on ourselves. In effect, like trees subjected to the winds of storms, we end up possessing a greater strength. We are strengthened through our crosses.