Look closely at the image above. Can you see it?
No, not the faces, although that’s the first thing I noticed when I came upon this photo. I am referring to the lighthouse, can you see it? Look again, it’s there. If you are having trouble finding it click/tap HERE. Amazing isn’t it? This photo is one of many that were taken when Hurricane Charlie hit the town of Porthcawl in South Wales, U.K. on February of 2014. The inconspicuous tower in this image is the 30-feet Porthcawl Lighthouse which has become a symbol of storm-battered Wales. Click on the thumbnails below to see a few more breath-taking images.
Needless to say, these waves are truly fascinating, but more fascinating than that is the story of how, for decades, this 1860 lighthouse was powered by a coin-operated gas lantern. The Harbour Master and other volunteers would have to brave the elements to feed in coins to keep the light burning day and night so that it could provide ships with a visible warning signal.
David referred to the word of God as a lamp for his feet and a “light” on his path. That is a timeless metaphorical truth that can still be echoed today. The word of God is light in that it reveals the true nature of our hearts and the way to be reconciled unto Him. It also shows us the way to live in response to His gift of love, namely Jesus. To grow in the knowledge of God and his holiness we need to read and study his word. To honor God and fulfill his plan for our lives we need to be obedient to his word. To reach the lost with the Good News of salvation we need to preach and teach his word. And to truly make a difference in this world we need, above all else, to live by his word. In other words, just like the 20th century Porthcawl Lighthouse needed to be fed coins in order to keep its light burning, we also need to keep feeding our souls with God’s word to keep his light burning in us. For it is the light that leads us on the right path; the beacon that helps the lost find their way to the saving arms of Jesus.
Prayer: Gracious Father, thank you for your precious life-giving word. Create in me a greater love for it that I may search it, treasure it and live by it. Let it become an inextinguishable light so that I may declare its power and help lead others unto you. For your word is truly the light that guides all men in the path of righteousness. In the name of your Son I pray, amen.
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105
“For I am not ashamed of the Gospel because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…” – Romans 1:16
“Study to show yourself approved to God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 [AKJV]
“He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Mark 16:15
“But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.” -James 1:22 [NLT]
-All Scripture is quoted from the NIV except where specified.
Lighthouse Devotions 
I couldn’t find the lighthouse without help either. Kind of like the Gospel message, isn’t it? often the storms rage so fiercely in the lives of people that they can’t see light anywhere. It’s we who are believers and have seen the Light for ourselves who need to come along side them and point others toward it! Love this analogy and pictures! Thanks Joe.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes Karen, it is difficult for those who do not know the Lord personally to see, let alone receive the light of God’s word, especially during trying times. But let’s be honest, even us believers sometimes can be caught up in the turbulent seas of life and find it hard to see the light. That is why we must continuously dwell in God’s word so that it may shine brightly even in the darkest of days. Thank you.
LikeLike
Wow! These images are amazing. I couldn’t find the lighthouse till you pointed it out but I sure did see the faces. Amazing. God’s Word is such a wonderful light which never goes out. Also, the huge waves towering over the tiny lighthouse reminds me of the troubles that can come our way but cannot extinguish the light/life that is in us. Thanks for sharing, Amy
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes Amy, the Word of God is an inextinguishable light indeed. Even though many have tried to put it out over the centuries its life-changing message continues to light up every heart that receives it.
LikeLike
Excellent message! ” To reach the lost with the Good News of salvation we need to preach and teach his word. And to truly make a difference in this world we need, above all else, to live by his word.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Kathleen. From my heart to the world! 🙂
LikeLike
Love this! No matter what ‘giant’ waves come our way, Christ calls us to keep standing, and we do this because He is our FIRM foundation. Love this devotional. Continue to write and inspire. I am so grateful that God has given me a husband who constantly seeks to encourage others with the Word. So proud! Your wife, Mari.
LikeLiked by 1 person