Get Turned On!

2013-9-24No one lights a lamp and hides it or puts it under a basket. Instead, everyone who lights a lamp puts it on a lamp stand so that those who come in will see its light. [Luke 11:33 (GW)]

We’re supposed to be lamps, but what good are we if we’re not lit? A lighthouse is of no use unless it’s glowing. If we are going to be God’s beacon, we need a power source and something to activate us. We need prayer and scripture to be our fuel and we must allow the Holy Spirit to ignite our flame.

LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE

Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand — shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. [Matthew 5:14-16 (MSG)]

We need to shine. But, how necessary is a lamp in the sunlight? Sharing our belief with other believers is not enough. If we are going to be light-bearers of the Word, we need to be willing to shine in dark places, too. Father in Heaven, guide us as we step out of our comfort zones and into the dark. Help us to shine your light so all can see and come to know you.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. [Matthew 5:16 (KJV)]

 

MAY OUR LIVES BE PROOF

For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps. He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly. He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed. [1 Peter 2:21-24 (NLT)]

Jesus, Savior and Redeemer, your story didn’t end with the crucifixion and resurrection; it just began! Help us be part of its continuation. Teach us; lead us; live within us. May our lives be evidence of your continuing presence in the world today.

GET THE WORD OUT

I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. … Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together. [Psalm 34:1,3 (NLT)]

O Lord, do I glorify you in the way I behave? Do I acknowledge my faith in the way I speak? Do I reveal your Holy Spirit in the way I interact with others? Would someone recognize you when they see how I conduct myself? Would anyone want to know you when they hear my words? Lord, let my words and actions glorify you today and every day.

I bless God every chance I get; my lungs expand with his praise. … Join me in spreading the news; together let’s get the word out. [Psalm 34:1,3 (MSG)]