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Christians To Reflect The Light Of Heaven, November 30
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.
Matthew 5:14, 15
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“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 trans-
forming 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.
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All apparent losses for Christ’s sake will count to them as infinite gain.
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