The Weekly Checkpoint #2 - Don't Turn Off The Lights
A lantern in the dark always guides the way.
I have thought about quitting. Just turning off the blog, Discord, and social media, and vanishing. It’s not what I feel God wants me to do, but seeing so little interaction over the years can be disheartening.
At the same time, closing it all down makes me wonder how many people would miss the chance to get closer to Christ through this content, or never learn that it’s okay to enjoy video games as a believer. Turning off the lights is something I don’t want to do unless I feel the Lord leading me to do it. So far, He hasn’t, so I won’t. Another motivator has been receiving random emails or comments about an article I wrote years ago. It’s amazing how God uses anything He chooses for His glory.
Some seasons do end, and that’s okay. We should always be obedient to His voice when He asks us to close a door, knowing that another will open. Races come to an end, but sometimes we quit too early. I’ve seen many geek ministries come and go. Many are still around and have reached much further because they’ve put in the work. I’m glad I haven’t thrown in the towel yet, and that I’ve been able to update our resources and grow our Discord community.
When you reach that checkpoint where you’re tired and want to give up because the game is frustrating, just put the controller down for a moment. Think about how far you’ve come and the obstacles you’ve already overcome. You will get over the next one, too. Ministries like mine go through similar hurdles. Just like a game, you gain experience points, level up, and get better gear—but it’s all to prepare you for the next challenge.
As I continue to write, stay active in the Discord, and stream on Twitch, please keep Gaming & God in your prayers. Many people who have been burned by the church or refuse to walk through its doors are spending their time online. May the lights stay on here as long as God chooses. Pray for those who keep their lights shining in the dark places of the internet.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re the only one trying to balance your faith and your hobby, come hang out with us in our Discord community. We’re keeping the lights on for you—click here to join the conversation.
Matthew 5:14-16
14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that[a] they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
indeed, kind of feel the same way... when life overwhelms, this online endeavor feels fruitless as we are also stifled in creating. Yet, we should still strive forward and to do better, and let Him chose how He uses what we put forward. :)