Radiate: 14 Devotions to Reflect the Heart of JesusSample

Returning to Him

God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. II CORINTHIANS 9:8 ESV

There are many ways in which we enjoy the sun and come to know its light. Some days it gives us adventure as it shines on the sand beneath our feet and makes for the perfect beach vacation. On other days, its rays are the warmth that makes our cold bodies keep moving. The sun embodies fresh mercy as it rises again in the morning and is the posture of consistency as it sets at night. And when the rains come and the sun reappears, it whispers to our soul, “This too shall pass.”

The sun doesn’t change, but what it offers us is based on what we need in that moment. Our perception of its light is through the filter of what we are already searching for. It is much the same in the way that Jesus radiates through us. We do not need to worry about being all things to all people; we simply saturate ourselves in His Word and His love, and He will grace us with what we need to give others. That is the beauty of being hidden in Him.

One day, we might be delivering food to a family in need, personifying how God supplies and equips us. Another day, it might just be praying with a friend and reminding them of truth. This seemingly small response has the power to move the heavens and points to the intimate nature of God. And then some days, we might be taking a really big step or making a bold decision for our lives. This radical obedience and trust in His plan communicate to others the trust we have in God’s voice.

And though we don’t prefer this way, some days it will be us walking through the fire and still praising His name that will be our story. Such actions scream of the power of God—our struggles reminding others that His strength is most seen in our weakness.

The sun does not continually ask, “How must I alter myself to be of use?” Similarly, we must trust that when we turn to Jesus, He knows what the watching world needs and He can provide that for us. Let our striving cease and our surrendering remain, much like the sun—always itself but used by the Father in a million different ways.

Hey Jesus, thank You for always helping me be what I need to be to those You want me to serve. Help me remember my value is not in striving but in simply following where You lead. You will bring the light when I open myself to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.