“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…
I love Mr Chambers. He steps on my toes and makes me look seriously at my heart motives.
could not have said it better my friend. Like I joked in my post, I need to pick quotes I don’t mind living because God just loves to make object lessons for me to make sure I really “get it.” hehehe
Have a great day.
Thanks for the reminder to count trials a joy. I always look back and see it as a growth but so quickly forget in the mist.
I’m in a dark valley right now. I could use your prayers. I am shameless asking everyone I know to lift me up– I need help in this battle–I’m not doing so well on my own.
Thank you.
Finding joy in the daily frustrations of life (like internet bullies) isn’t always easy, though, is it? I’m glad He keeps encouraging you to lift up your eyes. Great reminders.
Oh God, Iris,
Did I just need that post!!!
I came to let you know that I am pleased to offer you an award. Please stop by my place to collect it!
Iris, it is true that we are sheep and need to beware of the wolves. But when we are attacked, God is there and will not forsake us. The only thing we can do is to continue to trust in Him for all our strength. Thanks for sharing your very real struggle. We certainly need to pray for one another!
Iris,
Your words always encourage and inspire!
We all are walking that walk…and isn’t it just COOL when HE reminds you like HE did this morning…with a song, just to let you know HE is in the valley too!!
Right words at the right time!!
peace,
lori
In this world we will have trouble, but Praise God! He has overcome the world!!!!
Thank you for this post! God bless!
I enjoyed your thoughts on this quote sweetie.
Iris—amazing—the song from the Psalm “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” is the ONE I need and am singing in my head right now….and the Lord knew….and knows….what we have need of —whether it be spiritual or physical….and I needed to read what you have written. You made the “burdens” of last night lighter.
Thank you sister-in-Christ!
I love you!!!
Oh Iris – I’ve been there. I pray He will give you joy and peace in the midst of all of this. We are so blessed to have One who has promised to never leave us or forsake us. Have a joyful day!
Iris…I can so identify with your first paragraph…and so understand the burnout from forgetting, as you said, to let Him fill my cup every day. You are always such a blessing to me…and, I know, to many others in blogworld. No wonder Satan is attacking you…you are being used in a huge way to encourage and inspire others!
Praying that God will continue to strengthen and uplift you in the valley!!
Oh Iris.
I am so thankful you did not through in the towel. Our world would be dim without you. Beautiful Post. Love you my sister, Lynn
I am so glad you persevered Iris…You are such an inspiration to me!
I didn’t realize the past four months have been so hard for you. Empty-nest part of it? I pray life begins to settle in a little more, as we head into fall, and then on to Advent! :~)