Living Free - November 17, 2017
Today's Scripture
"Here's another way to put it: You're here to be the light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand. Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand--shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16 MSG
Thoughts for Today
God calls us to be light to the world. We can hand out tracts, witness to people who cross our paths, and even go on mission trips … but if people cannot see the love and character of Christ growing in us, our light will be dim.
God is calling us to "keep open house--always making others welcome. That involves taking time to talk to people. To be sensitive to their needs. To really show that we care.
God is calling us to "be generous with our lives--to be willing to get involved with people, with church ministry, with whatever he is calling us to do.
God is calling us to "open up to others"--to be honest and real. To share what Jesus has done in our lives.
By doing these things we will "prompt people to open up with God."
Consider this …
Teaching a class or sharing God's Word with someone or serving in a ministry are vital ways to share the gospel--but all these things must be combined with sharing ourselves and allowing the love of Christ to flow through us through our caring and good deeds. In order for our light to truly shine, we need to focus on Jesus and grow in character, allowing the fruit of the Spirit to be evident in our lives.
Lord, I pray that my life might reflect your love and that the fruit of the spirit will be more and more evident in my life. May my light shine brightly and draw people to you. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …Completely Free! A Group Study of Romans 1-8 by Dan Strickland. Everyone struggles from time-to-time, but we can have confidence that in Christ we are completely free from sin's slavery, from condemnation, and from fear of failure. This group study of Romans 1-8 and 12 helps Christians break out of the dull routine of a stagnant spiritual life. Applying the truths found in Romans can transform any believer into a person eager to follow God's will. This study can also serve as a powerful evangelistic tool by explaining the message of salvation as presented in Romans. Suggested uses include home Bible studies, cell groups, Sunday school classes, support groups and personal enrichment.
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