In a society where selfish ambition is everything, we as Christ followers are called to do the opposite. We are called to put the needs of others above our own. To treat others the way we would want to be treated. To show love instead of hate. We are called to be Jesus’ hands and feet. To be a beacon of light in a dark world. To promote hope and peace to the lost and broken.
Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
How can we become this beacon of hope? Your effectiveness will depend on your willingness to equip yourself in 3 areas:
- Studying the Word.
- Communication with God.
- Fellowship with other believers.
Studying the Word
It starts with reading the Word. The Word is alive and active, sharing truths that apply to your life. The Word is the truth that sets us free. It instructs us on how to live and love. You can’t be effective if you aren’t actively pursuing knowledge and truth in the Word.
Communication with God
Communication involves two components- talking and listening. I don’t know about you but sometimes I pray and make requests to God but don’t take time to listen to what He’s saying. We need to make sure we are open to hearing from God. It most likely won’t be an audible voice but He can put things on our heart. For example, while I’m studying the Word, there are times I feel strongly that God wants me to write my thoughts down and share with others. Other times while I’m in prayer God brings to mind someone I need to pray for. It is important to not only communicate with Jesus in prayer but to listen; sometimes we are called to go a step further and respond in action.
Prayer does not have to be a grand gesture spoken with impressive words. It is simply thanking God and making your requests known. I’ve been reading a book on prayer called Fervent by Priscilla Shirer and am excited to share what I’ve learned with you all very soon!
Fellowship with Other Believers
Being apart of a community of believers has many benefits. First, they encourage you in the faith. They are there to laugh and enjoy life with and when tough times come, they remind you that you are stronger than you think. Second they keep you grounded in the faith. They speak the truth in love and hold you accountable for what you do. Third, they pray for you and are there for you when you need help. Hebrews 10:25 says “not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”
Remember no one is perfect, we have all been lost and broken at one time or another. Let’s exemplify Christ’s love- not condemnation- by how we live on a daily basis.
A Prayer for You
Lord thank You for Your grace that we don’t deserve. Thank You for loving us so that we can love others. Give us ears to hear what You want us to hear. Give us eyes to see what You want us to see. Purify our thought life and renew our minds. Give us clarity to focus on Your will alone. Give us courage to be a beacon of hope to everyone who sees us. Show us the needs of others and give us strength and wisdom to meet those needs. In Jesus’ name, amen.
1 Comment
Thank you!!