July 23 - The God You Can Trust

Since Steve is starting a new Bible study based on Max Lucado's book, Experiencing the Heart of Jesus, we'll leave Psalm 119 and move on to verses that relate to our upcoming session.

Read 2 Corinthians 4:1-9

Context:

Text:
1Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. 3And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake. 6For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,"[a]made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. (NIV)

Footnotes:
2 Corinthians 4:6 Gen. 1:3
taken from www.biblegateway.com

Isn't it amazing how these words, written almost 2000 years ago, are so true today? Look back at verse 4..."the god of this age has blinded the minds of the unbelievers so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." If we look around us, even today we see those who are blind to the truth. They seek it, but they allow themselves to be fooled by meaningless things --- money, fame, stuff.

God is relying on us, we who have His light in our hearts, to share His truth like a lantern shines its light. He could just create a worldwide disaster to get everyone's attention, but instead he chooses to use our earthly experiences to connect with others who need this truth.

But like any flame, we must be sure to feed our lights so they don't grow dim. Studying the Word, prayer, and fellowship are key ingredients so we can shine brightly. So, polish your lantern and let all see the light of God that is in your heart!