Christians To Reflect The Light Of Heaven

[Thompson, Darryl]

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Ellen G. White Estate, Devotional for November 30
Visit us at http://www.whiteestate.org
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Christians To Reflect The Light Of Heaven

A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a
candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth
light unto all that are in the house. Matt. 5:14, 15.

"Ye are the light of the world," said Christ to His disciples. As the
sun goes forth in the heavens, dispelling the shades of night, and
filling the world with brightness, so must the followers of Jesus let
their light shine to dispel the moral darkness of a world lying in sin.
But they have no light of themselves; it is the light of Heaven which
they are to reflect to the world.

"A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid." Our thoughts and purposes
are the secret springs of action, and hence determine the character. The
purpose formed in the heart need not be expressed in word or deed in
order to make it sin, and bring the soul into condemnation. Every
thought, feeling, and inclination, though unseen by men, is discerned by
the eye of God. But it is only when the evil that has taken root in the
heart reaches its fruition in the unlawful word or deed that man can
judge the character of his fellowman.

The Christian is Christ's representative. He is to show to the world the
transforming power of divine grace. He is a living epistle of the truth
of God, known and read of all men. The rule given by Christ by which to
determine who are His true followers is, "By their fruits ye shall know
them." . . . 

The Christian's godly life and holy conversation are a daily testimony
against sin and sinners. But he must present Christ, not self. Christ is
the great remedy for sin. Our compassionate Redeemer has provided for us
the help we need. He is waiting to impute His righteousness to the
sincere penitent, and to kindle in his heart such divine love as only
our gracious Redeemer can inspire. Then let us who profess to be His
witnesses on earth, His ambassadors from the court of heaven, glorify
Him whom we represent, by being faithful to our trust as light bearers
to the world.

Everyone who at last secures eternal life will here manifest zeal and
devotion in the service of God. He will not desert the post of duty at
the approach of trial, hardship, or reproach. He will be a diligent
student of the Scriptures, and will follow the light as it shines upon
his pathway. When some plain, scriptural requirement is presented he
will not stop to inquire, What will my friends say, if I take my
position with the people of God? Knowing his duty, he will do it
heartily and fearlessly.

Of such truehearted followers Jesus declares that He is not ashamed to
call them brethren. The God of truth will be on their side, and will
never forsake them. All apparent losses for Christ's sake will count to
them as infinite gain.

>From Devotional: Our Father Cares, p. 314.