Internet Cafe

Tuesday, September 4, 2007

Holding Fast

“Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.” ~ Philippians 2:14-16 (ESV)

Saying that I have had a trying summer would be an understatement. I had previously shared that many changes have occurred, still are, in my professional and personal life.

Not only got I a little discouraged with all the changes, but I truly got discouraged with my ‘online life’ as well. I was ready to throw in the towel couple of weeks ago--my email server got hacked. I was denied access by the hosting company to my own email. I couldn’t communicate with my online world as I was used to.

I had to make a decision. Do I really want to go through all the hassle moving hosting companies with my Blogs? Although I am somewhat technical savvy, moving entire Blogs was not really something I wanted to do—or had the time for. Other attacks came too, but I don’t want to go into that.

I prayed, asked a couple of my online friends if I should continue, or just give up. One of my dearest online friends said “Well you could throw in the towel; you would have an easier life, and have more time for scrapping, and doing what you enjoy. But you wouldn't be making a difference in things that matter eternally. You would not be spreading God's word and being a light through this computer screen. The attacks won't stop, the comments won't go away, and the difficulties unfortunately may always be thorn in the side.”

What a wise friend. Yes, we are in the middle of a battle. Sometimes it is seen, other times it is not. Jesus never said that life this side of heaven would be easy. There will be attacks from the world, or even within the church.

Paul is telling us to hold fast to the word of life. No matter what will happen, no matter how hard the attacks get, stay strong, my sweet sisters. It is so worth it! There is so much darkness in this world, but He is using us and the technology of the Internet to spread a little light. With Him we can stand the attacks we face every single day, in real life and online.
“So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” ~ Philippians 2:1-4 ESV.

Lord of Heaven and Earth. I want to thank You for sending wise friends into my life. Yes, sometimes it is easy to just throw in the towel, to give up. You equipped us to be the light in the world. Lord, help us to shine no matter what. I the precious name of Jesus I pray ~ Amen.



You can also find me at my personal blog Sting My Heart

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10 Comments:

Blogger Lori said...

Oh Amen Iris!!!!! Great reminder.

September 4, 2007 at 7:14 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thank you for the reminder that everything we do for Christ is part of the battle! I know I'm thankful you choose to continue.

Be Blessed!
Terri Sue

September 4, 2007 at 8:38 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Oh Iris,

I am so glad you did not give up. I have seen the results of the light you share with others, with me. Thank you for your faithfulness and changing hosting companies.

Love the scripture today. Wonderful and so are you.

September 4, 2007 at 9:25 AM  
Blogger Sharon Brumfield said...

I'm glad God kept you here.
What would our area of the internet be without our Iris.

September 4, 2007 at 2:34 PM  
Blogger Vicki said...

I've walked through some discouragement lately, too, my friend, but the Lord is showing me that we don't labor in vain. In fact, He will do the work IN us and THROUGH us as we continue to rest in Him. Love you bunches.....Vicki

September 4, 2007 at 2:51 PM  
Blogger Bernadine said...

I'm so glad you decided to keep on. You were (and still are) and encouragement to me long before I ever left a comment on your blog.

September 4, 2007 at 5:22 PM  
Blogger Darlene Schacht said...

Iris, I'm so blessed that you are in my life through the internet. If it wasn't for this chunk of electrical wires, I wouldn't have you. You've been a huge encouragement in my life!

September 4, 2007 at 5:47 PM  
Blogger Aunt Angie said...

I join with the others! Glad you kept the towel on the rack! (instead of throwing in the towel)I am blessed daily by you! You are such an inspiration in my life and so many more!

September 4, 2007 at 9:51 PM  
Blogger Linda said...

I am very thankful that you didn't give up Iris. I would be lost without you here. You are such an encouragement and a blessing.
I think a sure sign that you are making a difference for the Kingdom is the opposition you get (unfortunately). But that's okay, because Jesus has said that he's already won the victory for us.

September 5, 2007 at 8:23 PM  
Blogger Lisa @ The Preacher's Wife said...

I am so grateful you hung in, Iris...You have been a source of immeasurable encouragement to me!!

I'm so glad God stood by you while you worked out all the 'technical difficulties'..:)

Lisa

September 6, 2007 at 9:17 AM  

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