Our Candle Power
Did you ever notice what happens when you light a candle? When does the flame give the most light -at the beginning of the candle; when the candle is half gone; when? Silly question, isn't it. Everyone knows that as soon as the candle is lit, it begins to shine with all of its "one candlepower,"
Did you ever notice what happens to many who obey the gospel of Christ? After the first "flash" of light, they grow dim, and some even go out. While we acknowledge the fact that babes in Christ have to be taught, nurtured, and encouraged, it should also be recognized that even the new convert is included in the words of Christ: "Ye are the light of the world, A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a lamp, and put it under a bushel, but on the stand; and it shineth unto all that are in the house. Even so let your light shine before men; that they may see your good works, and glorify your father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5:14-16)
One cannot be excused for having a "dim" light or none at all simply because he is young in the faith, From the moment of his new birth, the child of God is to be a living testimonial unto the glory of God, having put off the old man with all his worldly ways, he is to manifest the "new man, that is being renewed unto knowledge after the image of him that created him... " (Col. 3:9-10)
The only reason I can think of that would prevent the new-born from seeking to do everything in his knowledge to serve Christ is this — a LACK OF REPENTANCE. If one has TRULY REPENTED in his obedience to the gospel, there is no need for Christians to constantly "ride herd" on him to keep him in the way of Christ. Repentance is a turning, an "about face, " and solves all sorts of problems EVEN BEFORE THEY ARISE! While the need to admonish and encourage will be present, the need to "ride herd," to constantly keep after one, indicates something seriously wrong.
What about your light? Do others constantly have to fan the air to help your light burn? Are they using match after match trying to rekindle that flame? How much light are you giving to the world?
Let every one of us determine that our "one candlepower" will be the brightest it possibly can. The brighter the light, the more darkness dispelled, resulting in greater opportunities to lead others to Christ and Salvation through the light we supplied.
-2934 Wesley Chapel Road Decatur, Georgia