Devotional - Shine forth as lights in this world !

“In the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.”

- Phi_2:15

We are really living in evil times - times when it is so refreshing to find a genuinely good person. Christ expects us to have a calling in this world. It is to be beacons in this evil age. A Christian man should so shine in his life, that a person could not live with him a week without knowing the gospel. His conversation should be such that all who are about him should clearly perceive whose he is, and whom he serves; and should see the image of Jesus reflected in his daily actions. Lights are intended for guidance. We are to help those around us who are in the dark. We are to hold forth to them the Word of life. We are to point sinners to the Saviour, and the weary to a divine resting-place. Men sometimes read their Bibles, and fail to understand them; we should be ready, like Philip, to instruct the inquirer in the meaning of God’s Word, the way of salvation, and the life of godliness. Lights are also used for warning. On our rocks and shoals a light-house is sure to be erected. Christian men should know that there are many false lights shown everywhere in the world, and therefore the right light is needed. The wreckers of Satan are always abroad, tempting the ungodly to sin under the name of pleasure; they hoist the wrong light, be it ours to put up the true light upon every dangerous rock, to point out every sin, and tell what it leads to, that so we may be clear of the blood of all men, shining as lights in the world. Lights also have a very cheering influence, and so have Christians. A Christian ought to be a comforter, with kind words on his lips, and sympathy in his heart; he should carry sunshine wherever he goes, and diffuse happiness around him.

Prayer : Lord, help us to be beacons of light in this evil generation. Thus, may many who are thirsting for (and in need of) true and lasting peace, be guided to you ! May we reflect your glory by our lives and by being living testimonies of your grace, leading your children away from the world and drawing them nearer to you. We ask this in the name of our lord and saviour Jesus Christ, Amen.