September 6

Morning

so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and perverse generation, in which you shine as lights in the world — Phil 2:15 BSB

We use lights to reveal things. A Christian should live in such a way that no one could spend even a week with them without hearing the gospel. Our words and actions should clearly show everyone around us who we belong to and whom we serve. Our daily lives should reflect the image of Jesus.

Lights are also used for guidance. We are called to help those who are in darkness by holding out the Word of life to them. We should point sinners to the Savior and offer the weary a place to find rest in Him. Some people read their Bibles and don’t understand what they read. We should be ready, like Philip, to explain the meaning of God’s Word, the way to salvation, and the life of godliness to them.

Lights also serve as warnings. On dangerous coastlines, lighthouses are set up to prevent ships from crashing on the rocks. As Christians, we know there are many false lights in the world, leading people into sin under the guise of pleasure. While Satan’s wreckers tempt people with false promises, we must be the true light, warning of the dangers of sin and showing where it leads. In doing so, we’ll be clear of the blood of others, shining as lights in a dark world.

Lastly, lights bring comfort, and so should Christians. We should carry encouragement in our words, sympathy in our hearts, and spread joy wherever we go, making the world a brighter place.

Evening

But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. — Gal 5:18 BSB

When someone looks at their own character and situation from the perspective of the law, they will quickly fall into despair. In fact, if they’re wise, they’ll give up hope right from the start, because no one can be justified by the law. How wonderful it is to know that we live under grace, not law!

When we think about our standing before God, the question isn’t, “Am I perfect in myself according to the law?” but rather, “Am I perfect in Christ Jesus?” That makes all the difference. It’s not about whether I am naturally without sin, but whether I have been washed in the fountain opened for sin and impurity. It’s not about whether I’m pleasing to God in myself, but whether I’m accepted in the Beloved.

A Christian might look at their life from the perspective of Sinai and become fearful about their salvation. But it’s far better to view it through the light of Calvary. You might say, “My faith is mixed with unbelief; it’s not strong enough to save me.” But if you focus on the object of your faith—Jesus—you’ll see that there’s no failure in Him, and therefore you are secure. You might worry, “My hope is weak, and clouded by the cares of life; how can I be accepted?” But if you look to the foundation of your hope—the promises of God—you’ll realize that even when we doubt, God’s oath and promise never fail.

Believer, it’s always better to live in the freedom of the gospel than to be bound by the chains of the law. Judge yourself based on what Christ is, rather than on what you are. Satan will try to steal your peace by pointing out your sins and imperfections, but you can overcome his accusations by holding fast to the gospel and refusing to submit to the yoke of legalism.