Shine Like Stars
By Peggy Kleckner
“...children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life…”
Phil 2:15
This verse has come to mind quite often lately. It was in our women’s Bible study last year and it keeps coming back to me. We are to shine like stars as we hold out the word of life. I went back and looked it up and was struck by several things. First, how wonderful to be called one of His children! We are certainly not faultless on our own, but rather forgiven because of Christ’s full payment for our sins on the cross. What a joy to be His! Next, we most certainly recognize that we are living in a crooked and depraved generation. The daily news confirms that. Thinking further on that, I realize that as this world sinks deeper into the darkness of depravity, the light that is in us becomes much more noticeable. We don’t see the stars during the daylight hours and yet our minds know that they are there. We, as Christians, are becoming more noticeable as the world becomes darker. In the darkness, even the smallest or weakest light brings hope and comfort.By Peggy Kleckner
“...children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life…”
Phil 2:15
So, as the children’s song goes, “This little light of mine. I’m going to let it shine!” We are called out as His stars to help light the way and give direction to those who are lost. We should not hide under a bushel basket and refuse to shine in these darkening times. Instead, we can allow Him to place us on display, so that others may see us and be led to Him.
Perhaps we should look at these bleak times differently. Although they are difficult, they are a dark backdrop on which God can display His stars and lead many to Himself.
GOING DEEPER:
1. Have you thought of your role as His star in these darkening times? Pray for His strength as your identity in Him is revealed.
2. In what ways can you “shine” for Him to those around you?
FURTHER READING:
Matthew 5:14-16; John 1:1-14; 2 Timothy 1:7-12
Peggy is a wife and mother of four adult children - two sons and two stepsons. She is the Co-coordinator of Oakwood’s Wednesday p.m. Bible Study.
