July 6 - Rejoice & Shine.

Proverbs 28:12
“When righteous men do rejoice, there is great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.”
 
The state of the church determines the course of a nation.
Look around today and compare the average church in America with the current events in our country.
 
Proverbs 14:34
“Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.”
 
When the righteous rejoice, there is great glory.
There is joy in seeking the Lord through the pages of His Word.
 
1 Chronicles 16:10
“Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.”
 
There is great liberty in righteousness.
Galatians 5:1
“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”
 
The Statue of Liberty stands tall and shines brightly in New York Harbor proclaiming the freedom that is found in America. How much more is the liberty that has been given unto us through Christ! He has made us free, and yet we often choose to entangle ourselves over and over again in the bondage of sin.
 
Matthew 5:14-15
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.”
 
Rather than hide the Light within us under a bushel, may we choose today to rejoice as we shine brightly for all to see.
 
Matthew 5:16
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
 
 
Bible Reading:
2 Chronicles 7-8  |  1 Thessalonians 5  |  Proverbs 6