PowerPoint - July 17, 2008
July 17, 2008
Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
--Galatians 5:19-21
Did you know that your life is on display? Someone is always watching how you react, what you say and what you do. You are a living, breathing gospel story!
Sometimes, I think the church gets stuck thinking that proclaiming the gospel is all about talking… when it’s really about walking.
In Matthew 5:16, Jesus said, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Being a true and effective follower of Christ also requires action!
God’s ministry should be known for our muscles as much as our mouths as we work hard to serve people who need Jesus. It’s one thing to talk about the joy, the grace, the hope, and the love of our Lord Jesus Christ. But the world really takes notice when somebody shows love.
What an incredible thing to lead the way in loving our neighbors… to show the love and grace of the Lord Jesus Christ through our actions.
So today, I want to challenge you to let your light shine before others! Demonstrate the living hope of Christ through your faithfulness and consistency… through your kindness and compassion… through your good deeds… and through your honorable acts.
Sometimes, it’s the little moments of kindness that bring great results in people’s lives. So often the shortest visit, the simplest word can make the difference between heaven and hell in a person’s life.
Jesus said, “And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”
So let me ask you… how will you shine your light today?
LET YOUR ACTIONS TODAY REFLECT JESUS CHRIST.
