Counsels on Church Life

Counsel #6 — Shine Brightly

Picture: Counsel #6 — Shine Brightly CCL 61.1

Just as you add more wood to your campfire to maintain its warmth and light, so our walk with Jesus needs constant nourishment to remain vibrant and influential. Without consistent spiritual feeding, our faith can flicker and dim, leaving us cold and isolated. CCL 61.2

The Bible beautifully compares those with spiritual insight to shining stars, illuminating the paths of those lost in darkness. When we radiate the love of Jesus and guide others toward Him, we receive an incomparable reward far surpassing earthly accolades.^[88] This reward is the extraordinary privilege of sharing eternity with those we've encouraged to join us in Christ's kingdom. CCL 61.3

“Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever.” Daniel 12:3 CCL 61.4

“Those who hide their light so that the world may not distinguish between them and those who walk in darkness will soon lose all power to diffuse light.... They will arouse at last to find that their lamps have gone out.... [Matthew 25:6] They were lulled to sleep by the cry of peace and safety, and did not keep lamps trimmed and burning. Aroused to their darkness they plead for oil, but it is impossible for one Christian to impart character to another soul.” Ellen White in Letters and Manuscripts, vol. 10, Letter 84, 1895, par. 17 CCL 61.5

Reflect: How do your non-Christian friends or acquaintances view your Christianity? CCL 61.6