Who Are You Attracting?
Ever since structural lighthouses first appeared, the most famous one of antiquity dates back to 280 B.C., they have become the center of attraction for countless aficionados as well as passersby who just happen to spot them from afar. Whether young or old, professional or unskilled, artistic or uncreative, people from all walks of life have been attracted to lighthouses. There is something about them that spectators find intriguing, exciting, or as in my case, peaceful and inspiring. But what exactly is it that draws us to these fascinating towers of the sea? Could it be their long-standing history, their design, or perhaps even where they’re located? For me, it’s simply their navigational purpose. Lighthouses are remarkably strong and dependable structures that were built to guide, warn, and save the lives of those navigating through dark and treacherous waters.
Remember, a lighthouse shines during any kind of weather. So, whether you are spiritually on fire or a little cold because you’re experiencing some trying times, you are supposed to be attracting people and guiding them towards God. As a lighthouse for God, you are to radiate His love and compassion in a world that is lost in darkness. A darkness caused by hatred, confusion, and fear. And, if you are following the news closely, you’ll realize that it’s only getting darker with each day that passes by.
Undoubtedly, lighthouses attract thousands of spectators throughout the year, but they were made exclusively to draw the attention of those in maritime distress so as to warn them of coastal dangers and guide them safely to land. They have been able to do this by serving as entrance makers to ports by day and as warning beacons by night and on stormy days. You too should be able to attract people not only because you dress, talk, and carry on nicely, but because you reflect the love, peace, hope and joy that comes from having an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. You must attract the wealthy, the well-educated, the humble, and the pious as well as the poor, the illiterate, the prideful, and the immoral. You must warn them all of the dangers of living without Christ and lead them towards the cross where they can find salvation for their souls. Otherwise, they will continue to navigate aimlessly in darkness while being attracted by the very things that will ultimately destroy them. Who are you attracting?
Prayer: Oh gracious Lord, it was your light that drew me, rescued me, and brought me to your saving arms. And it is that same light that you have deposited in me so that I may shine for you. May my thoughts, actions, and speech reflect your love, mercy, and grace so that I may draw others unto you. Help me to stand strong and continue to shine amid the darkness of this world. And I will be careful to give you all the glory, all the honor, and all the praise. In Jesus name I pray, amen.
“And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” -John 12:32
“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (NASB)
“But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for everything that is illuminated becomes a light itself.” – Ephesians 5:13 (BSB)
“But if you do warn the wicked person and they do not turn from their wickedness or from their evil ways, they will die for their sin; but you will have saved yourself.” -Ezekiel 3:19
-All Scripture is quoted from the NIV except where specified.
Light does attract, think of bugs, bugs go toward the light. Also think about when we see a spot light in the sky, we often thing something is going down there. The light in the dark gets attention, that is how we should be, the light of Christ, because the light of Christ stands out in this dark world. Thanks for sharing this blog post. Think about this, the darker the world gets, the brighter His light will shine.
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Beautiful! Yes, we are all to be lighthouses: “You must warn them all of the dangers of living without Christ and lead them towards the cross where they can find salvation for their souls.”
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One of the things that attract people who do not know God is The peace we have during trying times. The assurance like Matt says that we will emerge victorious. I love this devotional. I continue to be so proud of how you write the many analogies of lighthouses and the faith of a believer. You encourage so many. Love you! Your wife, Mari.
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Yes Matt, especially in trying times. For it is in then that our true faith becomes more noticeable.
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Even in the trying times, people should be attracted by the bold way we are walking through those times, with absolutely confidence that we will emerge victorious.
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