Psalm of the Day: Psalm 102:1-15
Wisdom of the Day: Job 20:16-29
Scripture Reading: Luke 8:16-21
Our Lord tells us that spiritual knowledge is like a lighted candle. It is utterly useless when covered with a bushel, or put under a bed. It is only useful when set upon a candlestick, and placed where it can be made serviceable to the needs of men.
When we hear this lesson, let us first think of OURSELVES. The Gospel which we possess was not given us only to be admired, talked of, and professed, but to be practiced. It was not meant merely to reside in our intellect, and memories, and tongues, but to be seen is our lives. Christianity is a talent committed to our charge, and one which brings with it great responsibility. We are not in darkness like the heathen. A glorious light is put before us. Let us take heed that we use it. While we have the light, let us walk in the light (John 12:35).
But let us not only think of ourselves; let us also think of OTHERS. There are millions in the world who have no spiritual light at all. They are without God, without Christ, and without hope (Ephesians 2:12). Can we do nothing for them? There are thousands around us, in our own land, who are unconverted and dead in sins, seeing nothing and knowing nothing aright. Can we do nothing for them? These are questions to which every true Christian ought to find an answer.
We should strive, in every way, to spread our faith. The highest form of selfishness, is that of the man who is content to go to Heaven alone. The truest charity, is to endeavor to share with others, every spark of religious light that we possess ourselves, and so to hold up our own candle that it may give light to everyone around us. Happy is that soul, which, as soon as it receives light from heaven and begins to think of others as well as itself! No candle which God lights, was ever meant to burn alone!
Prayer for the Day: Dear Lord, please let others see Jesus in me.
Action Plan: Evaluate how much others see Jesus in you. When does your light shine the most? When does it shine the least? How can you resolve to let it shine more?
This devotional was taken from The Gospel of Luke by J.C. Ryle published in 1858
and adapted by Pastor Tim Lewis of New England Shores Baptist Church.
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