THE STORY OF JESUS: Luke 8:16-18
“Therefore consider carefully how you listen.” (Luke 8:18)
The previous parable (vv.4-15) was about hearing and listening.
These words explain that parable further: what happens when we truly hear.
If something is received, it will be visible – like a lit lamp.
If I claim to have received the message, it should be evident in how I live.
If seed is planted in my heart, it will show, and it will grow!.
Jesus is challenging listeners, believers, followers to consider carefully.
Have you really received Me, have you really opened your heart to Me?
Apparently Jesus knew that many would claim to know Him, but not show it.
Their light will be hidden, their fruit will not match the tree.
This is a challenge many church-attenders need to consider carefully.
Why are so many Christians NOT known for compassion, generosity, mercy?
Where is the bright light shining from Jesus-followers today?
Are many church attenders more like seed on the rocks or among the weeds?
Consider carefully how you listen… is it actually producing new life in us?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, I have long sensed that I am stuck when it comes to following You. Only allowing Your Word to penetrate so far. I hear You calling me to open my heart to You fully… will I listen?
LightShine.
We all need light in order to see or we will stumble and fall.
His Word is a lamp unto my feet to guide my steps. I need to walk in His light for the Light of Christ shines in my heart. And because it does, I am a light bearer of His Light radiating His love and His dominion and His power and His truth to those around me. Help me daily Lord to radiate that love and truth to others in word and deed.
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine, shine, shine
Let it shine!
Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine
Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine
Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine, shine, shine
Let it shine!
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine, shine, shine
Let it shine!
All up in my house, I’m gonna let it shine
All up in my house, I’m gonna let it shine
All up in my house, I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine, shine, shine
Let it shine!
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine, shine, shine
Let it shine!