September 6, Morning

C. H. Spurgeon · Modern retelling

"In the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world." — Philippians 2:15 · KJV

We use lights to make things visible. A Christian should so shine in his life that no one could live with him a week without coming to know the gospel. His whole manner should be such that all around him clearly perceive whose he is and whom he serves, and see the image of Jesus reflected in his daily actions. Lights are meant for guidance. We are to help those around us who are in the dark; we are to hold out to them the Word of life, to point sinners to the Savior and the weary to a divine resting place. Men sometimes read their Bibles and fail to understand them; we should be ready, like Philip, to teach the seeker the meaning of God's Word, the way of salvation, and the life of godliness. Lights are also used for warning. On our rocks and shoals a lighthouse is sure to be built. Christians should know that many false lights are shown everywhere in the world, and so the true light is needed. Satan's wreckers are always abroad, tempting the ungodly to sin under the name of pleasure and hoisting the wrong light; let it be ours to set up the true light on every dangerous rock, to point out every sin and tell where it leads, so that we may be clear of the blood of all men, shining as lights in the world. Lights also have a cheering influence, and so should Christians. A Christian ought to be a comforter, with kind words on his lips and sympathy in his heart; he should carry sunshine wherever he goes and spread happiness around him. Gracious Spirit, dwell with me; make me gracious too, that with words that help and heal, and with actions bold and meek, I may reveal Your life in mine and speak for Christ my Savior.