Light!

Light!

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105 AMPC

For the commandment is a lamp, and the whole teaching [of the law] is light, and reproofs of discipline are the way of life. Proverbs 6:23 AMPC

When I read of the lamp and the light, it seems to give off 2 different meanings. It would appear that God would have me look at his Word again from a different perspective. What's a lamp? The closest image to this was the lamp set up in the old tabernacle, in which oil was to be kept to ensure that the light from the lamp never died. First of all, it would appear that the lamp was the receptacle, the object holding out the light, allowing the light to become visible and sustained.

Without the lamp, it would appear that the light would not be possible. Or it could be that the purpose of the lamp, and the way it was set up, was to give light to all who came in contact with it. Today's extract points to one conclusion: the Word of God seems to serve both functions: it is the lamp as well as the light. How does this truth affect me? The 2nd extract in Proverbs helps to clarify: I can take God's express commandments as the lamp. They provide me clear instructions on what God wants for me. I read them for instruction and information and guidance, but they will only become life-giving when I take the teachings and apply them to my life.

Of what use is knowing what the Bible says and yet, not live it out? Of what use is daily reading and meditation, yet no daily commitment to application and obedience? Information is good, but application is even better, and a lifetime of commitment to discipline by the Word of God is even best. Please note that the 2nd extract says 'whole teaching', not convenient half truths. I can decide to take the part I want and apply it to myself; it doesn't make it right, and I only end up deceiving myself.

Am I ready to take God at His whole Word? Would I willingly submit myself to sound doctrine available in God's complete Word? God wants to guide, He wants to lead, but He will not force himself on me. His Word is eternal, and is the manual for life. It will only work out its purpose in me if I take the Word and apply it as i should, not as I want. His time of favour is here.