MennoNet.com

Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. Philippians 2:16
Holding forth to the word of life requires resolute attention to God's word that anchors our faith, refines our character and advances God's mission. It's having focused intent that brings transformative effect. We are urged to fix our mind, our eyes and our schedules on the Lord and his trusty word. Out of this comes life, active and vigorous, where we who are devoted to God are blessed to be called a faithful witness.
I have been studying this verse. I like to look up the verse on the Bible Hub website starting in strongs and research various concordances/lexicon. The above inspiration is a paraphrased combination on the words holding forth...
This really inspired me, that's what I want. But at the same time I wonder... how can I do this in practical every day life. I love the words focused intent. But how do we fix our schedules on the Lord? In the midst of the mundane, the cares and responsibilities of life that aren't sacred how do I hold the sacred in my heart?
What inspires you and what practical tips do you have for application?

Have you read The Practice of the Presence of God by brother Lawrence.

No, I have not. It sounds really good. I will put that on my reading list.
This quote is attributed to him and really fits what I'm trying to get at.
"That in order to form a habit of conversing with GOD continually, and referring all we do to Him; we must at first apply to Him with some diligence: but that after a little care we should find His love inwardly excite us to it without any difficulty."

Standfast wrote: ↑Tue Sep 16, 2025 9:49 am No, I have not. It sounds really good. I will put that on my reading list.
This quote is attributed to him and really fits what I'm trying to get at.
"That in order to form a habit of conversing with GOD continually, and referring all we do to Him; we must at first apply to Him with some diligence: but that after a little care we should find His love inwardly excite us to it without any difficulty."

i pray for the blessing of the Holy Spirit, for protection and guidance, for myself and all.
when i look back on my young life, i credit the Holy Spirit for protecting me and giuding me, before i knew who He was.
no other explanation.

i believe the same for my beloved young grdaughter, living in an epicenter of sin, surviving, even thriving, in spite of the hurts.
sin hurts with a big ripple effect.
i pray for all children, teens, young people, parents - all swimming in seas of insults to brains and spirit.

big big prayers.

ending with, His will, not mine.

- - - - - - -

glad to see you actively posting! 2021!

"Holding forth" as a phrase can mean to talk about a particular subject for a long time, often in a way that other people find boring. People do that here sometimes. But in this verse I get the picture of someone holding out their hand, as if giving a gift. For the word of life is a gift that we offer, and when it is accepted brings great rejoicing for all.

I always pictured "holding forth" (the Word of Life) as referring to an identifying banner or flag... a standard... something you hold up to identify yourself, your purpose, your allegiance toward anyone you encounter.

We put that on our new church sign:
Holding forth the word of life - Philippians 2:16