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The story is told of a small village that received a beautiful sundial as a gift from a loving benefactor. The people were thrilled with the gift. It was shiny and new and represented the favor they enjoyed from their beloved patron. Soon, however, they began to worry that the weather and the elements would deface their precious gift. They consulted on what might be done -- in the end they built a roof over it.
The people in this story forgot that the sundial is designed to be in the sun. When they put it under a roof they took away its purpose. Just as a sundial must not be put under roof, a light must not be hidden in a basket. “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house” (Matthew 5:14-15). |
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Paul told Timothy, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). The word “example” is translated from the Greek word “tupos”, meaning a die or stamp (Strong’s). A good stamp replicates itself exactly. In like manner, Timothy was to be a model for others to imitate (c.f. Galatians 4:19, 1 Corinthians 11:1). This exhortation meant not only for Timothy, but for all Christians. Every person in Christ is must shine as an example for others to follow.
We have received a beautiful gift from our loving Benefactor (James 1:17, Romans 6:23). We must not to hide our example from the world. We are to shine our lights before men, that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
- Josh Allen (Pikeville, KY)
We have received a beautiful gift from our loving Benefactor (James 1:17, Romans 6:23). We must not to hide our example from the world. We are to shine our lights before men, that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
- Josh Allen (Pikeville, KY)
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