An Illuminating Light
Imagine trekking through the woods on a pitch-black night with only a lantern or flashlight to guide you. How would you stay on the trail? How would you know where to go? How would you keep from getting lost?
The author of Psalm 119 shares some insight:
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
Psalm 119:105 NIV
The word of God refers to the written or spoken message of God, the Bible, as well as the message of God revealed in the person of Jesus Christ, often called the Word.
God is real. He created you on purpose, and He designed this world with you in mind. So, how can you know who He is, what He’s like, and what He desires from and for you?
You can know God, better understand who He’s created you to be, and navigate this increasingly dark world by the light of His Word.
The word of God is like a light in your hand, illuminating truths about the story of God, the character of God, and the ways of God. It helps us understand His creation and answer difficult questions or make hard choices.
The guidance found in God’s Word is perfect. His story is true. His instructions are trustworthy. His promises will stand. His commands are like beams of light pointing us back to Himself.
Now, notice what this verse doesn’t say. It doesn’t say that God’s word is a spotlight exposing to everyone every single thing about your past, present, or future.
No, God’s Word is a lamp for your feet and a light on your path. And as you walk with Him, step by step, He will lead you to life.
The Mission of the Church
After Jesus’ death and resurrection, he spent 40 days on earth ministering to people and preparing His disciples for life without Him. Jesus planned on leaving earth and ascending to heaven, but before doing so, He gave His disciples a mission found in Matthew 28:19-20. We often call this The Great Commission.
The Great Commission begins with getting up and going to places where people need to hear about the good news of Jesus. This doesn’t mean you have to leave your country—there are people in your own neighborhood and workplace that need to hear the hope of Jesus.
The ultimate goal of the Great Commission is to make followers of Jesus. So as we go about sharing the good news of Jesus with people, we're to show people how Jesus has changed our lives, and invite them to discover Jesus for themselves.
It can be easy to think that making disciples is the responsibility of our church pastors and ministry leaders. While those things certainly are part of every ...