“We are not built for the mountains and the dawns and aesthetic affinities, those are for moments of inspiration, that is all. We are built for the valley, for the ordinary stuff we are in, and that is where we have to prove our mettle.” ~ Oswald Chambers
The quote Laurel picked by Oswald Chambers could have not come at a better time. Have you ever felt defeated, out of ‘juice’, running up-hill loosing your breath? Believe me, the past 4 months have been all that and more. What do you do when you feel defeated and think that the whole world is against you?
My sweet friend, Laurel has heard it often over the past several months. My defeat; me wanting to throw in the towel…
I tell you one thing: someone does not like people who share His Word on the internet. You all know who I am talking about. There have been battles moving blogs because someone found it funny to hack my email. There was pure burnout on my part, because I often forgot to take time just with Him to fill my cup every.single.day.
I had not a good start today, but God was faithful on picking me off of the ground, dusted me off and sent me back out there — a sheep amongst wolves. When I got into my car this morning, the first song they played on the radio was “Count It All Joy”, based on James’ passage:
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” ~ James 1:2-4 (ESV)
I don’t know who the artist is, but I know it was God’s Word speaking to me through a song. My heart skipped a beat, I started to smile.
I have to agree with Mr. Chambers when he said “We are built for the valley, for the ordinary stuff we are in, and that is where we have to prove our mettle”. When I am down, have nowhere to turn, there is always Someone I can lift my eyes to…
“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” ~ Psalm 121:1-2 (ESV)
Lord of Heaven and Earth. Yes, Lord, You have allowed various trials these past 4 months—I am thankful for them. They have opened my eyes. I am nothing without You and Your Holy love for me. Thank you Lord, for surrounding me with Godly women who point me back to the cross. Thank You Lord, for a loving husband who helps me to see things clearer. In the precious name of Jesus I pray ~ Amen.
Thank you so much for stopping by today. To read more thoughts on today’s IOW quote, please visit my friend Laurel, our hostess for this week.
Be blessed today and as always…
