Bible Pathways 12/20/2001
December 20
Read 1 John 1 -- 3
Most of us know someone whom we admire and even seek to pattern our lives after. Our Heavenly Father has provided us with the greatest Role Model in history -- Jesus Christ, The Light of the World (John 9:5). Let us follow His example, even as John wrote: If we say that we have fellowship with Him (Jesus Christ), and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not (are not practicing) the Truth: But if we walk in the Light, as He is in the Light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:6-7).
There are some who have a relationship with Christ, but still walk in the darkness of the world. The darkness of the natural mind is always more concerned about himself, his well-being, his successes; but the spiritually minded who walk in the Light as He is in the Light are first and foremost concerned that not self, but Christ, be exalted in their conduct.
Other characteristics of "darkness" are a desire to be noticed, a love of supremacy drawing attention to self in their conversations -- always seeking to dominate the conversations. With others, it is impatience, a sensitive spirit that's easily offended, a disposition to resent and retaliate when contradicted and a desire to respond with sharp, harsh words, or to criticize.
A jealous disposition, a secret spirit of envy, a disposition to speak of the faults and failings of others, rather than their virtues, are attitudes of "darkness" that expose a self-centered pride.
Some walk in "darkness" with the spirit of discouragement and self-pity, and a determination to convey that feeling to everyone who will listen.
Then there are those who are so preoccupied with their own self-image and their ambitions that they are indifferent toward reaching a lost world with the good news that Jesus died to save them.
"Darkness" is not of God, and it must be recognized for what it is: The light of the body is the eye: if therefore your eye be single, your whole body shall be full of light. But if your eye be evil, your whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you be darkness, how great is that darkness! No man can serve two masters (Matthew 6:22-24).
The one motive of Christ who is the light of life was to bring glory to God by doing the will of Him who sent Me. . . . I do not seek My own will, but the will of the Father who sent Me (John 4:34; 5:30).
Jesus is more than just an ideal life to admire; it is a life to be lived day by day in our present situations. This is more than being a law-abiding citizen or living by the Golden Rule. It is more than being a church member and attending church services; it is living as Jesus lived, in obedience to the Father. You were sometimes darkness, but now are you light in the Lord: walk as children in the light (Ephesians 5:8).
Pity the person who feels he has no need to pray: Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me (Psalms 139:23-24).
Prayer Needs:
Government Officials: Rep. Henry Brown, Jr. (SC), Sen. Jean Carnahan (MO), Rep. Ike Skelton (MO), and Rep. Tom Tancredo (CO) · BPM Staff: Barbara Jean Jackson · Pray for Alexander Botanov, Russian translator · Pray for the Bible Pathway International Radio Broadcast sponsored by Mr. William H. Lupton · Country: Liechtenstein (32,000) in western Europe · Major languages: German and Alemannic dialect · Religious freedom · 87% Roman Catholic; 12% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: When you are in desperate circumstances, turn to the Lord with fasting and prayer (2 Chronicles 20:2-4).
Memory Verse for the Week: James 5:7-8
