Bible Thoughts

October 27, 2002

Goliath challenged the armies of Israel, saying to them, "I defy the ranks of Israel this day; give me a man that we may fight together"(I Samuel 17:10). The Lord answered the challenge of this heathen warrior and sent a youth by the name of David. Saul looked upon David as a mere boy, not able to face the mighty giant of the Philistines. David answered the king by pointing out how he had killed a lion and a bear and that the Lord would "deliver me from the hand of this Philistine." Saul, aware of the intensity and faith of this young man, told David, "Go, and may the Lord be with you"(I Samuel 17:37). He who cowered the armies of Israel was conquered by a young man whose faith rested not in weapons of men, but in the providence and care of God. Never underestimate the power of young men and women who are faithful to the Lord, in any generation. Give us young men like David.

The apostle Paul knew a young man whom he described as "no man like-minded who will care truly for your state"(Philippians 2:20). Timothy had proven himself "as he served with me in furtherance of the gospel"(v. 22). The trust that Paul had in this young man led him to the recommendation to Philippi. Timothy possessed an "unfeigned faith"(II Timothy 1:5). Paul's confidence in Timothy had been assured by the life and works of this dedicated young man. Give us young men like Timothy.

The future of the church in this place, as well as all cities, towns, and communities rests in the dedication of the coming generations. We need young men and women who have the dedication of David and the faith of Timothy. The future of the Lord's kingdom rests in their hands.

Our relatives are watching and observing us. Our neighbors are aware of our conduct and behavior. Our friends know the kind of people we are. Each day we have contact with other folks and exert an influence upon them. They are aware of our attitude, our speech, and our actions. The Lord teaches us that we are to let our "light shine" in their presence. Whether we are in the workplace, in school, in the community, or, any place--folks are aware of the example we set before them.

Note that Jesus did not say, "Shine your light," but "let your light shine." When the disciple walks the path of a Christian, it will be known by those whose lives one touches. The observers are able to discern whether we live the life that pleases the Lord or whether we fail to set a proper example. If my neighbor were to appraise me, what would be the results? Would they recognize a dedicated Christian who places the Lord and His kingdom first in one's life? Or, would our conduct leave a question in the mind of the observer? Our dedication to the Lord should reflect the light of the gospel each day. Whether in the neighborhood, the workplace, at play, or among friends, we must let our light shine so that we can influence them in the direction of righteousness.

The apostle Paul stated, "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an ensample to them that believe, in word, in manner of life, in love, in faith, in purity"(I Timothy 4:12). Even when we are young, we have the power of influence upon others. Paul recognized such in Timothy; we need to recognize it in our own young people. And, remember, young people, that you have the power to influence others in the paths of righteousness. Your example may well be the encouragement that will keep others from making a mistake. The greatest example that we have for our own attitude, conduct, and decisions, is that of Jesus Christ. "For I have given you an example, that ye also should do as I have done to you"(John 13:15). The lesson that Jesus was teaching consisted of humility. He used the washing of feet as a way of impressing upon the disciples that whatever task falls upon a disciple, it is right to meet the challenge. If the Lord would humble himself to the task of the lowest servant in a household, surely we can be enthusiastic to fulfill whatever challenge may come our way.

Did you ever feel you needed to talk with someone about a problem? That's what Christians are for.

Did you ever feel that no one cared as you searched for help? That's what Christians are for.

Did you ever want to ask someone to help you in your life as a Christian? That's what Christians are for.

Were you ever lonely and wanted someone to visit you? That's what Christians are for.

Did you ever want to ask someone a Bible question? That's what Christians are for.

Did you ever want assurance that you were doing what is right? That's what Christians are for.

Did you ever need someone to help you in your daily life? That's what Christians are for.

Did you ever need to be refreshed? That's what Christians are for.

Paul said it, "Let love of the brethren continue"(Hebrews 13:1).

Much of what is passed off as advice in religion is nothing more than "opinion." The opinion usually lacks a sound basis. In religion, a person may give explanations as to what is said(or meant) even though he may not have opened his Bible in years. "I think" becomes the standard by which the scriptures are judged. Advice from such speculators is dangerous to a person's soul.

The only way to find righteous advice is to study the word of God and fill the heart with the teachings therein. As one studies and learns, he will use only the contents of God's word to answer questions, make statements, and offer suggestions in religious matters.

Let each individual remember that we are instructed to speak only as the oracles of God(I Peter 4:11).