Foundations: Not just for yourself
John 1:47-49 (New International Version)
47When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, “Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false.”
48“How do you know me?” Nathanael asked.
Jesus answered, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.”
49Then Nathanael declared, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.”
Matthew 5:15-17 (New International Version)
15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven
Ever get the feeling you’re being watched?
There’s an old Ray Stevens song that says, “Santa Claus is watching you. He’s everywhere. He’s everywhere.” Well, Santa may not have his eye on you but you definitely are being watched. The problem is those who are really putting your life under a microscope will probably never make you aware of it. That’s right. They may weigh and measure every word, every action, and every reaction without you ever even having a clue. Who is this mystery guest? You might be surprised. It’s your co-workers, your business partners, your family and even the lady who takes your order at the local restaurant.
What are they looking for? They’re looking for someone who is a REAL Christian. They want to see someone who sincerely seeks after God and seeks His presence in his or her life.
Someone who will say with Paul, “ I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death“ (Philippians 3:10)
That sounds like a lot of pressure. So many people with their eyes on you waiting for you to either prove to them it’s possible to serve God or it isn’t. The thing is they’ve been doing it ever since they found out you go to church.
The secret is people are searching desperately for someone who is real. They may tell you they don’t go to church because all Christians are hypocrites but the truth is they are longing for someone to be real. They want you to succeed whether they ever tell you or not. They want you to make because they want to have hope for themselves.
Fasting can help us with this. Fasting allows us to draw closer to God so we can be a better witness with our lives in front of all those around us. Just by being around God, you’ll begin to take on His character. Then as those around you begin to see this change as well it sparks a hunger within their souls as well.
Shine as a light today and allow God to use you to light up the darkness around you.
Sir. Francis Assisi once said, “Preach the Gospel at all times and if necessary use words.”
Matthew 5:15-17 (New International Version)
15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven
The moment I opened this devotion, the spirit met me. I have been moved to tears. I hope people are making time for the devotions you are doing. Are not enough words to thank my church leadership, for heading the call of God for a corporate fast. Strength, renewal, wisdome, love, faithfulness will be ours. I praise Him and thank Him for this special time. Thank you to the church for our helps, I am glad you are my family.
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