A true light for all mankind

Friends,

We are as different from the world as Light is different from Darkness. There is no comparison. For light is so very much more than the absence of darkness. And in that great difference is a tremendous opportunity.

Ephesians 5:8 [NKJV]
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light

As believers, we are more than just a light for a dark and fallen world. We are the very essence of light and illumination and revelation. For as the sun reveals what was hidden during the night, so our words and actions - when they are in obedience to Christ - reveal the sin and decay that is hidden by the world. The world believes that it is okay. The unbelievers are convinced that they have either me the standard of righteousness or that no such standard exists. We know differently, and our walk must exemplify that knowledge.

When it does, we are a living, breathing representation of the Good News of Christ. Don't miss this opportunity! Walk as a child of light.

Be encouraged, Jose

Bringing it to the Father

13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
Mathew 5:13-18 (NKJV)

The word is clear, the performer controls the mood, suspense, expectation and reaction of the audience and not vice versa. The world must look to the believer for clues, lifestyle, what works and what doesn't, perspective to uncommon situations and circumstances and life in general. It is unfortunate for a believer to now voluntarily relinquish his/her role as the seasoner to a clueless world. We are the light of the world carrying heavens wattage and power within that is meant to ignite and light the world. Is our life lighting the world? Is it bringing illumination to the dark issues of the world?

We have a unique opportunity to showcase the God in us, for the power to bring forth clarity, illumination, and shine to the world is within. We must perfect this so our Father in heaven may be glorified.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi

Darkness has met its match

Friends,

The days are quite short during this time of year, with less than 8½ hours of daylight today. It can seem as though everything is happening in the dark. We wake up and it is dark. We drive to work, and it is dark. We drive home again in the dark. We look outside during supper and it is dark.

But we know that in just a few weeks, the sun will begin to rise a little earlier each morning, and set just a few minutes later each evening. And gradually, more and more life takes place in the sunshine. For me, it is a hopeful prospect.

But this world continues to be dark, despite the best efforts of the sun. Sickness, deceit, murder, hatred, adultery, thievery, and strife run rampant across every nation. And, just as the sun shines just a little less each day, the world seems to get worse with every passing night.

And we have the same expectation. Yes, these days are dark and getting darker. But one day, that darkness will be defeated by the Light.

There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever. -- Revelation 22:5 [NKJV]

Be encouraged, Jose

All to God

But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 4:7-11 (NKJV)

The time for serious focus and vigil is now for all members of the body of Christ to be about our individual and collective calling rather than the chasing of shadows, the treasures of the world, fame and religiousity. The tasks at hand, the work of sowing, the rigors and joy of harvest for His Kingdom must be our sole goal and driving factors. To a puzzled and confused world, a calm and focused army (not a distracted one) will break down every wall and barrier to the reign of God's kingdom here on earth. We must not be aligned or manipulated by the noise of the gallery neither should we put our trust in anything else but on Him that has supplied us with abilities.

The light and salt of the world must influence the world and not the other way around and our abilities are to ultimately bring forth His glory through us and all our works. In all our all, All must be to God.

Be encouraged,

Afolabi