READ
REFLECT
We see it all around us: today’s culture is trying to lure believers into a life of darkness. They claim that sin doesn’t exist, that people are simply making choices, and that we must accept everything, even if it goes against our traditional beliefs. They label us as insensitive or extreme if we don’t conform. But we can fight back against these lies by shining our light as Christians. Our light has a power that is not of this world; it is of God.
James 1:17 reads, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
In today’s culture, many people do not appreciate our light. They would rather live according to their own lustful desires, even if it means rejecting God’s truth.
Fortunately, when people take the time to hear God’s Word with a sincere desire, a change does occur. They accept Christ into their hearts and realize that there is no greater mission than serving Him and building His kingdom. These people who once didn’t care about the light now choose to shine theirs whenever an opportunity arises.
1 Corinthians 4:5 says, “Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God.”
In these words, Paul reminds us of a fundamental truth: that we are not the ultimate judges of one another. It is easy to make hasty judgments about others based on external appearances or incomplete information. However, when we slow down and take the time to get to know someone, we may be surprised to find that they have a light to offer that we never expected.
RESPOND
1. Commit 1 Corinthians 4:5 to memory.
