03/17/2021
Organized Overseers by Aubrey Johnson
Rule 29 - Lights: Let it Shine!
We have come a long ways since the first automobile came off the assembly line. One example of this progress is the lighting package on a new car. There are headlights, fog lights, taillights, backup lights, turn lights, passenger lights, door lights, handle lights, ignition lights, hood lights, trunk lights, dash lights, warning lights, security lights, emergency lights, glove compartment lights, visor lights, and mirror lights to name a few. Some lights are for drivers, others for passengers, and a few for motorists and pedestrians outside the vehicle. The number and variety of lights on a car are astounding.
The purpose of light is twofold: they exist for sight and for signs. From the beginning of the world, this has been true (Genesis 1.14-19). The Bible is to the soul what light is to the eyes (Psalm 119.105). It guides and guards you. When driving, high beams are best to see where you are going. To avoid blinding others, low beams are desirable. When God’s Son and His Word live in you, you become light for your fellowman. Leaders illuminate The Way for the church. Faith, hope, and love radiate from your countenance and kindness. Be a beacon of Christlikeness.
Paul was guided by God’s Word and then used his influence to help people see God’s will through his example. Leaders are Scripture writ large. You too have an influence. Use it to light the way for others. Show them what holiness looks like. They hear it in sermons and classes. They look to you to see it clarified and applied. You are a living, breathing illustration of the meaning and blessings of biblical teaching.
When Paul was nearing the end of his life and ministry, he wrote to Timothy urging him to carry on the work of Christ. In a touching personal note, he commended his young protege for following his example in eight specific cases: “my teaching, my conduct, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, my persecutions and sufferings” (2 Timothy 3.10-11). In all of these areas, Paul had been conscious of the opportunity to enlighten and encourage fellow workers. Especially the younger. Pause and take stock of your example in these leadership categories.
As a child, Timothy became “acquainted” with the sacred writings. As an adult, Timothy’s knowledge was reinforced by his acquaintance with Paul in whom God’s Word lived. Scripture is God’s will breathed out. Leadership is God’s will lived out. All Scripture, inscribed or embodied, is profitable. Your example can instruct, redirect, correct, and inculcate those who aspire to grow spiritually. It should make those who know you more mature (complete) and more prepared (equipped).
Leaders need light and give light. By modifying your life to harmonize with God’s Word, you become a source of light to dispel the darkness of sin. Practice letting your light shine in your marriage, moods, and methods. May all you say and do be done in the light of love (1 Corinthians 16.14). Driving with a light out is illegal and dangerous. Likewise, leading with a light out is not an option. Don’t make excuses for any weakness. Fix the light!
