In what ways can we ensure our "lamps" are properly aligned with God's will? The Lamp Image in Scripture • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) • “For this commandment is a lamp, this teaching is a light.” (Proverbs 6:23) • Jesus calls His followers “the light of the world,” instructing us to keep the lamp uncovered (Matthew 5:14-16). • The parable of the ten virgins shows wise servants keeping lamps ready with oil (Matthew 25:1-13). Receiving the Flame • New birth in Christ is where the lamp is first lit. – “I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) Fueling the Lamp: Daily Intake of the Word • Regular reading, study, and memorization keep fresh oil flowing. – “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4) • Align every decision with Scripture’s clear teaching. – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) Trimming the Wick: Repentance and Holiness • Remove sinful habits that dim the light. – “Let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit.” (2 Corinthians 7:1) • Keep short accounts with God: confess quickly, turn decisively. Oil of the Spirit • The Holy Spirit empowers steady, bright burning. – “Be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18) • Yield to His prompting; refuse to quench or grieve Him (1 Thessalonians 5:19; Ephesians 4:30). Positioning the Lamp: Visible Obedience • Place the lamp where it benefits others—home, workplace, neighborhood. – “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) Staying Watchful • Keep alert for the Bridegroom’s arrival. – “So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober.” (1 Thessalonians 5:6) Guarding Against Flicker: Fellowship and Accountability • Meet with believers who stir up love and good works (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Allow trusted brothers and sisters to speak truth if your flame grows dim. Testing the Alignment • Compare every teaching, impulse, or plan with Scripture. – “Examining the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true.” (Acts 17:11) • The inner witness of the Spirit never contradicts the written Word. Practical Checklist • Daily Scripture intake and meditation • Consistent prayer and worship • Ongoing repentance and obedience • Conscious dependence on the Holy Spirit • Intentional good works that reflect Christ • Regular fellowship and accountability • Vigilant expectation of the Lord’s return Encouragement to Shine “You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light… and find out what pleases the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:8-10) |
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