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.
Justified by Faith
Paul, the writer of the letter to the church in Rome, covers the details of what is known as “the Gospel message”—a message that was handed down to them. It's packed with deep theological truths that are meant to shape the way Christians live.
One of the central components to the Gospel is that salvation comes through faith alone. That means we are saved by the power of God through believing and trusting in Jesus. Every Christian comes to God through faith—not through good deeds or by trying to earn salvation.
Paul says that we have peace with God by our faith in Jesus. Prior to that, we were considered ungodly and unrighteous—because we would live our lives in our own power, doing our own things. This led to separation from God.
However, by faith in Jesus, we are justified before Him. This means that through Jesus’ own right-living, we are made right before Him. Even though we still make mistakes, we can stand innocent before God because of Jesus.
It’s ...