Psalm of the Day: Psalm 1
Wisdom of the Day: Proverbs 17:1-14
Scripture Reading: Luke 11:33-36
We are reminded of what men do when they light a candle. They do not "put it in a hidden place," under a basket. They place it on a candlestick that it may be serviceable and useful by giving light. When the Gospel of Christ is placed before a man's soul, it is as if God offered to him a lighted candle. It is not sufficient to hear it, and assent to it, and admire it, and acknowledge its truth. It must be received into the heart, and obeyed in the life. Until this takes place, the Gospel does him no more good than if he were a heathen, who has never heard the Gospel at all. A lighted candle is before him, but he is not turning it to account. The guilt of such conduct is very great. God's light neglected, will be a heavy charge against many at the last day.
But even when a man professes to value the light of the Gospel, he must take care that he is not selfish in the use of it. He must endeavor to reflect the light on all around him. He must strive to make others acquainted with the truths which he finds good for himself. Thousands flatter themselves that their souls are not in a very bad state because they abstain from gross and glaring acts of wickedness, and are decent and respectable in their outward lives. To have the light, and yet not walk in the light is of itself a great sin. It is to treat the King of kings with contempt and indifference!
Let us beware of selfishness even after we have learned to value the light. We should labor to make all men see that we have found "the pearl of great price" and that we want them to find it as well as ourselves. The Christian who is satisfied to burn his candle alone is in a very weak and sickly state of soul!
Prayer for the Day: Dear Lord, help me to burn brightly for Christ.
Action Plan: Memorize and practice Matthew 5:16.
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.
