Rhapsody of Realities: Light And Example by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Sunday, January 17th, 2016.

 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth (John 17:18-19).

The Lord Jesus talking to His disciples, said, "Ye are the light of the world..." (Matthew 5:14). This is who we are; we're the light of the world, and you know what? Light gives direction. So, as Christians, we're not supposed to live like the rest of the world. We must live and lead as light.

Paul said to Timothy, "...be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity" (1 Timothy 4:12). There're certain things you must not, and shouldn't do, because you're the epistle of Christ; you're the light to give direction. Thus, you must sanctify yourself. For the sake of the disciples, Jesus separated Himself from worldliness. He sanctified Himself. He did it for their sakes. We read it in our theme scripture.

God expects you to sanctify yourself for the sake of the unbelievers around you. He expects you to separate yourself from anything and everything that doesn't glorify Christ. Jesus said, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). In your place of work, let your light shine. If you're a student, be a burning and a shining light in your school. If you're into business, politics, or sports, let your light shine so brightly that men may see your good works, and be provoked to righteousness.

Let the Christ-life reflect in, and from you. It should be your goal; think, talk, and act like Jesus. Wherever you are, and whatever you do, be an example. Be a bright and shining light. Bring glory to the Name of the Lord, for that's what your life is for.

PRAYER
Thank you heavenly Father, for your Spirit that's at work in me, both to will and to do of your good pleasure. Your love fills my heart. I set my affection on you alone, to love and honour you continually; my life is for your glory today and always, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 John 2:15-16
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

Titus 2:11-13
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Daily Scripture Reading:
1-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Matthew 12:22-50,
Genesis 40-41.

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Acts 10:1-8,
Job 5-6.
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