No. 301 - The Shining of the Righteous

The Celebration of God’s Kingdom 

The Shining of the Righteous 

Matthew 13:43  

"Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear." 

Starting Prayer 

Dear Lord, please open my heart and mind to understand Your Word today. Help me to grasp the promise of shining in Your kingdom and to live in a way that reflects Your light. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Background 

Matthew 13 contains several parables that Jesus used to describe the kingdom of heaven. These parables reveal deep truths about God’s kingdom, using simple stories. In Matthew 13:43, Jesus speaks about the final triumph of the righteous, portraying a beautiful image of them shining brightly in the kingdom of their Father. 

Be Encouraged 

The promise that the righteous will shine like the sun in God’s kingdom is a powerful reminder of the hope we have in Christ. Life can sometimes feel dark and challenging, but Jesus assures us that those who follow Him will radiate with His light. This shining represents purity, joy, and the glory that comes from being in God’s presence. Imagine the warmth and brilliance of the sun; this is how we will be, reflecting God's glory eternally. 

Living righteously in a world full of challenges is not easy, but knowing that our faithfulness leads to eternal glory is encouraging. The light we shine now, through our acts of love, kindness, and faith, is just a glimpse of the brilliance we will display in God’s kingdom. Let this promise motivate us to continue living for Christ, no matter the difficulties we face. 

Application 

Consider Philippians 2:15, "that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world," and Daniel 12:3, "And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever." 

Invitation 

If you have not yet committed your life to Christ, today is the day to step into His light. Visit a nearby Church of Christ to learn about obeying the gospel through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38). The Lord will add you to His church, where you will continue to grow in your faith and follow Christ's teachings (Matthew 28:18-20). Embrace the promise of shining in God’s kingdom and share this hope with others. Make today the day you start living for Christ and reflecting His light in the world. 

Concluding Prayer 

Thank You, Lord, for the promise that the righteous will shine like the sun in Your kingdom. Help me to live in a way that reflects Your light every day. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. 

Embrace the Experience 

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May the Lord bless your day. 

 

Theodore J. Quist 

Evangelist 

Church of Christ 

Abokobi - Accra 

Ghana 

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