Prayer and Promises

The Promise

Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

— Matthew 5:16, NASB 

The Testimony

Every stone in God’s temple must be a living stone, a stone that shines, reflecting light to the world. Let the laymen do all that they can; and as they use the talents they already have, God will give them more grace and increased ability. 

The lay members of our churches can accomplish a work which as yet they have scarcely begun… They should feel a love for souls, a burden of labor for them, and should study how to bring them into the truth. They can distribute our publications, hold meetings in their homes, become acquainted with their neighbors, and invite them to come to these meetings and Bible readings. Thus they can let their light shine in good works. 

Let the workers stand alone in God, weeping, praying, laboring for the salvation of their fellow men. Remember that you are running a race, striving for a crown of immortality. While so many love the praise of men more than the favor of God, let it be yours to labor in humility. Learn to exercise faith in presenting your neighbors before the throne of grace, and pleading with God to touch their hearts. 

A precious experience may be gained by one who engages in this work. He has upon his heart the burden of the souls of his neighbors. He must have the help of Jesus. How careful he will be to walk circumspectly, that his prayers may not be hindered, that no cherished sin may separate him from God. While helping others, such a worker is himself obtaining spiritual strength and understanding, and in this humble school he may become qualified to enter a wider field. 

The Lord is willing to do a great work for all who truly believe in him… If our people will act upon the light that is given in these few words of instruction, showing that they sincerely believe the truth which they profess, we shall surely see of the salvation of God. Wonderful revivals will follow. Sinners will be converted, and many souls will be added to the church. When we bring our hearts into unity with Christ, and our lives into harmony with his work, the Spirit that fell on the disciples on the day of Pentecost will fall on us. 

— The Review and Herald, June 30, 1903 

The Response 

Father God, I seek to bring my heart in unity with Christ that His light can shine through me. May Your Holy Spirit fill me and work through me to bring others into the truth. Give me a love for souls and a burden to labor for them. Teach me how to become better acquainted with my neighbors, I present them to the throne of grace asking You to go before me and touch their hearts.