What's in your toolbox?

I was recently watching something on TV and they were talking about making sure the group they represent had all the tools they need to get their job done.  And as my crazy mind works - I began to think about my toolbox in the closet, then my tools in the kitchen, and then I began wondering about my spiritual toolbox.

We need to make sure we have the right tools for the job - if you are hanging a shelf - you will need a hammer, a level and a measuring tape.  In the kitchen you may use your mixer or food processor to get the job done. 

But what are the tools we need in our spiritual toolbox - tools that can help build our faith, to help others, and to move a little further on our journey to the Father?

I've thought of a few - you may have the same or completely different:

First - the lives of the Saints.  There are many Saints that have inspired me - some by their undying faith and others who did not necessarily live sainted lives in the beginning, but came to their faith later in life.  I have used St. Monica's continue prayer for her son to inspire me to continue praying for my own family.  And Mother Teresa's faith even when she faced the darkness everyday.

My second tool I have in my box is the Rosary - When I was younger, I did not really have a devotion to the Rosary, it was something I had in my purse, but rarely pulled out, but over the last few years I have found new strength in praying it.  I try to pray the Rosary everyday (notice the word 'try' for I am definitely not perfect.)  I have discovered that for me, it brings me so much closer to the Holy Mother and it gives me a center in my life.

The third tool I have is my prayers for others and their prayers for me.  A few years ago I was pretty sick and in the hospital.  My husband had brought my Rosary and had placed it in my hand.  But due to the pain and medication I could not focus and only could pray a couple Hail Mary's.  It was then that I felt God say to me 'It's okay, others are praying for you.'  This gave me much comfort and peace.  And later when I was better I could reflect on it.  It made me realize how important our prayers are for others.  We do not necessarily know what their lives are like or what they are facing - but our Father knows and our prayers help bring them closer to his love.  It's also just as important to ask for prayers from others.  I know for me I can hesitate, not knowing what their faith beliefs are or in fear of what they may say to me.  But I need to move past the fear and focus my life on the Lord.

So share with me - what is in your toolbox?