GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Philippians 2:15, John 8:12

Introduction

What does it mean to shine?

"Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain." (Philippians 2:14-16 NIV)

The youth faces this warped and crooked generation of our time with more difficulty. The youth have some knowledge more than children but not as adults. It is unarguable, how difficult it is for the young ones to be in the light of Christ. This is why Paul calls on them to "hold firmly to the Word of life." 

In the Gospel of John, Jesus is called “the true light, which gives light to everyone” (John 1:9). And Jesus Himself made a declaration, "I am the Light of the world" (John 8:12). And in Matthew, Jesus said to us Christian (believers and receivers of Christ), "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14). Throughout the New Testament, the followers of Jesus Christ are called to be lights in the darkness. So, what does it mean to be in the light of Christ? Or to shine in Christ Jesus?

The Youth in the Light of Jesus Christ

1. Exhibiting Counter-Cultural Life. 

The way of life today, is predominantly geared to please the world. We live in a dark world, full of lies, sexual immorality, drunkenness, hate, vengeance, jealousy and confusion. But God’s Word tells us to “put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." (Romans 13:12). Whiles it has become the norm to chase physical pleasures and selfish gain to gratify the desires of the flesh, the youth in Christ is commanded to live a different way—to “clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh." Romans 13:14 (NIV).

2. Put Yourself Out for God's Use. 

Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others” (Matthew 5:16a). He explained that no one lights a lamp just to hide it under a bowl. Lighted lamps give light to everyone around it and the light is seen all over (Matt. 6:15). Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, your light is to be seen by all the people around you. That is only possible if you take time to mingle with others as you make a positive impact in their lives. Stop comforting yourself that you are the shy type to hide your light.

3. Your Light Must Point Back to the Source. 

When Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others,” that wasn’t the whole sentence. He went on to give the purpose of our shining, “that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16b). Bing in the light of Christ should never be to bring recognition to ourselves but to bring glory to God. Like John, we must not fail to confess, "I am not the Messiah" (John 1:20) He always pointed to Christ Jesus, not himself (John 1:26-27). There is a thin line between being in the light of Christ and putting on a show to get attention. In any case, Jesus said, "Let both grow together until the harvest." (Matt. 13:30). It is a matter of intention and your drive. 

The Dimmer of Light in Christ. 

It is common to see the shade of lights getting dull to block their bright shining power. In the same way, unconfessed sin does mare our beautiful shine in Christ.

Being in the light of Christ is to constantly examine your own life. Precious one, has sin dimmed the evidence of Christ in you? Surely, it is time to pause for a moment in prayer to ask God to reveal any sinful act you might be ignoring. And if there be a sin you repeatedly struggle with, jot it down and pray over it continually. You can ask your Reverend Minister to help you in prayers and counseling. Ask God for His forgiveness to create a clean heart in you. My dear, we may not be perfect, but we constantly have to address our sins. We shine as Christ expects and to make a positive impact on others.

Who is the Youth in the Light of Christ? 

It is the youth who "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but [is] transformed by the renewing of [the] mind. [One who is] able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2 NIV)

Being the light of Christ Jesus sounds great, doesn’t it? But how exactly do you become this brilliant example to people around you? Let's share these 4 practical tips;

a. Be careful what you say. 

The Bible calls the tongue “a restless evil, full of deadly poison” (James 3:8). Bam! That is serious. The more reason why we should take our speech seriously. There is this wise saying, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” It’s not bad advice, even to the adult. I love this text: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (Ephesians 4:29 NIV). 

b. Be careful what entertains you. 

In the light is being with Christ. Think of these; Where do you go for fun? What shows or movies do you watch? What kind of music do you listen to? My dear, would you go to the same places, watch the same things, do those things, or listen to the same music if Jesus was sitting next to you? Or would you be ashamed? Remember, "He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart." (1 Corinthians 4:5 NIV). Let these questions keep you in check, whether you are alone or with others.

c. Be careful how you use social media. 

People are watching what you post, whether they interact with your posts or not. Check the things you have been posting—articles, your comments, photos, your likes, those you follow, and so on. Are they with the intention of pride? Selfishness? Rude? Insult? Or are they to put others down or make them jealous? Youth in the Light of Christ would do no such thing. Always make informed and respectful posts as well as visit sites that would build and glow your light in Christ.

d. Think of others. 

Consider other people’s feelings and needs to help them as far as you can. Encourage others instead of criticizing them. Have patience for others. Give others the benefit of the doubt. If you hear gossip, distance yourself from it or change the subject. When you encounter a difficult person, remember that they were made and are loved by God. Paul advised us saying, "Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else." (1 Thessalonians 5:12-15 NIV).

Conclusion

"Now may our God and Father Himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us … May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. May He strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus [Christ] comes with all his holy ones. [AMEN!] (1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 NIV)

Shalom aleichem...