Lives Shining Brightly

This is what the Apostle Paul tells the Philippian believers. They are to let their "lives shine brightly before them." This sounds very familiar to the words of Christ when He tells the disciples that they (we) are the "light" which shines in the darkness. "Ye are the light of the world." In essence, we reflect "the light." Jesus is the light from heaven. Jesus is the light of the world. We are His followers, His disciples, His friends, therefore we reflect who He is. It is both a privilege and a duty.

It is a privilege because He has chosen us. He has ordained us. He has called us. He has done this because of His love for each of us. He has placed His love upon us and in us. It is a privilege to be called His.

It is a duty because we have a responsibility and duty to reflect His nature ... Him. The goal is for others to see Jesus in us. That is, the real Jesus. The Jesus of the scriptures. The Jesus of heaven.

Paul told the Philippians to let their "lives shine brightly before them" (2:15 NLT). This is said in the context of verse 14, "in everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing." The reason is, so that no one can speak evil against them and in so doing they would be letting their "lives shine brightly before them."

Lord help me to watch what I say because I never know who is listening. Help me not to complain or to give myself to endless arguments. Above all, I want to reflect the real Jesus, the Jesus of the scriptures. This is my privilege and my duty.

This is today,

Pastor Gary