July 11, 2021

Devotion for July 11

Jesus said, “I am the Light of the world.”  (John 8:12)  Light has been used to symbolize God, faith, and holiness throughout Scripture. Jesus then added “He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.”

 As Believers we are instructed to carry light to this darkened world. His true followers “have the light of life” therefore Jesus also says, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14)  As obedient followers of Christ, we must rely on His power to carry the light of the Gospel as opportunities are presented.

Song lyrics by Chris Rice put it this way: 

 Carry your candle, run to the darkness

Seek out the hopeless, confused and torn.  

And hold out your candle for all to see it.  

Take your candle and go light your world.

 What does this look like to those in darkness?  The songwriter goes on to identify those over whom God’s heart is breaking:

 Frustrated brother, see how he's tried to 

Light his own candle some other way

See now your sister, she's been robbed and lied to

Still holds a candle without a flame.

 Satan has subtly come into every institution of man for the purpose of obscuring the true identity of Jesus and maligning His character. Jesus equips His followers to be true witnesses for Him in the world.

 “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come,”  Matthew 24:14

 And [Jesus] said unto them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.”   Mark 16:15

 “Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth — to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people — saying with a loud voice, Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgement has come; and worship Him who made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.”  Revelation 14:6-7