JESUS' PARABLES: THE HIDDEN LAMP
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This week we look again at the parable of the lamp on a stand from another of Jesus’ perspectives.
Jesus advises us to remove our lighted lamp from under the bed and place it on a lampstand for others to see. He further declares that there is nothing concealed that will not be revealed later, encouraging us to work hard with whatever we have; to be productive so we are not relieved of our duties and blessings! (Luke 8:16-18).
Is your lamp lit? That is, are you living a life that blesses others and therefore is worthy of emulation?
If your answer is yes, are you showcasing your holy living so others can see it, be blessed, and glorify Jesus? It is important that we live lives that please God and man, so others can come to salvation in Christ.
For those of us that are struggling yet concealing our failures, Jesus warns that NOTHING is concealed from God, that everything will eventually become public knowledge. The need for us to be honest about things and begin genuine recovery journeys is underscored here.
Everyone falters, but the brave man owns up to his mistakes; King David, Jacob, and Jonah all made mistakes, repented, and were used by God for mighty things.
Finally, Jesus encourages us that if we showcase our lives for His glory, more will be added to us; however, the man who does not use his talents well will have the little he has taken away from him.
Isn’t it amazing to know that excellence is required from us in spiritual and physical things – at work, play, church, and in dealing with others.
Will you allow God’s light shine through you and bless others? Or are you too afraid to show who you are in Christ? We are saved by Grace; be gracious this week to others by sharing your good fortune also.
Lesson of the Week
1. Do not hide your faith and hope in Jesus (Matthew 10:32-33).
2. Nothing is hidden from our God; not even our smallest sins or deepest thoughts (Proverbs 15:3).
3. Be productive with your talents or you may lose it (Luke 8:18).
Live holy and represent Jesus well.
Shy away from things that undermine your walk with God; stay close to God’s word, and His people. Stand strong for your faith in Jesus, for in this way you may lead others to Him, and to eternal life. The bible says that the man who wins souls is wise (Proverbs 11:30).
Do not hide your sins or failures from God; go to Him in repentance and He will give you a fresh start (Proverbs 28:13).
God has blessed you with little; invest it wisely in order to show you are a productive and faithful steward. Even in the world, faithfulness and increasing productivity in one’s duties lead to promotion; it is never the other way round.
Showcase your abilities humbly, stand up for Jesus wherever He placed you, be repentant and grateful for His grace, and work hard and diligently at whatever tasks that are placed before you.
God rewards those who strive, and who keep their lamps on a stand. Be that person; THRIVE IN JESUS!
Weekly Nugget: “No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light. For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, that shall not be known and come abroad” (Luke 8:16-17; KJV).
Dr. Kene D. Ewulu ministers from Columbia, South Carolina, The United States.
All scriptures were linked from www.biblegateway.com