How can we reflect God's glory as described in Revelation 21:23 in daily life? Setting the Scene Revelation 21:23 describes the New Jerusalem where “the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp”. That literal future city shows what God always intended—His own splendor illuminating everything through Jesus. Until we arrive there, our calling is to let that same radiance shine through us here and now. The Source of Every Ray • John 8:12—Jesus says, “I am the light of the world”. • 2 Corinthians 4:6 notes that God “has shone in our hearts.” • Apart from Christ, we have no light; in Him, we have all we need. • When we stay near the Lamp, we glow. Drift away, and we dim. Seeing His Glory so We Can Show It • Daily Scripture intake—“beholding…being transformed” (2 Corinthians 3:18). • Unhurried worship: sing, speak, or silently adore. • Quick confession: sin is soot on the glass; wipe it off as soon as it appears. • Dependence on the Spirit: ask Him to kindle what’s gone dull. Practical Ways to Radiate 1. Character – Integrity at work—even when no one is checking. – Purity in thought and media choices. – Humility that credits God for every success. 2. Words – Truthful speech seasoned with grace. – Encouragement that lifts weary hearts. – Refusal to gossip—darkness cannot spread if we don’t pass it on. 3. Deeds – Visible good works so others “see your good deeds” (Matthew 5:16). – Generosity that meets needs without spotlighting self. – Justice for the vulnerable; mercy for the hurting. 4. Relationships – Forgiveness that mirrors the cross. – Unity in the church; division snuffs out the lamp’s glow. – Hospitality that welcomes believers and seekers alike. 5. Perspective – Joy in trials, showing hope is anchored beyond this world. – Thanksgiving in all circumstances; gratitude puts a shine on life. – Expectancy: live like citizens of a city that needs no sun. Guarding the Lamp • Reject hidden sins—nothing dims light faster. • Establish Sabbath rhythms; burnout leaves us flickering. • Keep close company with other bright believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Memorize verses; when darkness presses in, light beams out. Living Previews of the Coming City Wherever you stand today—office, classroom, kitchen, hospital room—think “street of gold in training.” Each act of obedience sends a shaft of eternal light into present shadows. Philippians 2:15 calls us to “shine as lights in the world”. Do that, and neighbors glimpse the dawn of Revelation 21:23 before it fully arrives. Summary Stay near the Lamb, keep the glass clean, and aim every facet of life at making Him visible. The city that needs no sun is coming; until then, we carry its glow into every ordinary corner of earth. |
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