The key to letting the light shine

From today’s passage, let us learn two important secrets. If we read this passage as a continuation of the Parable of the Sower, our understanding will deepen. Those who hear the word of God with a “good soil heart” naturally begin to shine forth the light of God. A lamp fulfills its purpose only when it is placed where it can be seen by all. So then, how about us? Are we shining the light of God before people? Recently, Christian businessmen have been actively engaging in evangelistic work. This movement seems to have two characteristics that were not seen before. (1) Instead of having a specific leader, a participatory movement through networking is being developed. This is deeply connected with the advancement of the internet. (2) The importance of literature evangelism is being rediscovered, and a large number of high-quality testimonies are being produced. I also regularly read such testimonies, and I am impressed by their bold stance in witnessing to Christ. Are you shining your light? If not, take time to meditate on what might be binding you. We have in our hearts the fear of “what if.” However, the light we are to shine is not our own light, but the light of God. In other words, we are simply to testify to how wonderful a Savior Jesus Christ is. After that, God Himself will take responsibility. Let us now pray that we may boldly bear witness.

The key to receiving blessings

The second secret is how we can receive God’s blessing. (1) It is to live with the awareness that nothing can be hidden from God, always transparent, and with no secrets. (2) It is to continually use the blessings received from God. “For whoever has, to him more will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him.” This is not about the rich, but rather words meant to encourage the servants of God. To the faithful servant, more work will be entrusted. That is the principle of the kingdom of God, and that is the blessing. Even without striving to become someone by your own strength, greater responsibilities will be entrusted as a reward from God to the one who is faithful. Have you ever voiced complaints that your service is too much, or too little? Let us properly place our service in perspective from the viewpoint of the kingdom of God.