Shining Your Light: Embracing God's Call
Summary
### Summary
Tonight, we gathered to celebrate and praise God, recognizing the importance of giving Him our all. We were reminded that our past lives, filled with late-night parties and indulgences, should not overshadow our commitment to worship and praise God with the same, if not greater, enthusiasm. The central theme of the evening was that God is depending on us. We explored Matthew 5:14-16, where Jesus calls us the light of the world, emphasizing that our light should shine before others so they may see our good works and glorify God.
We discussed the identity crisis within the church, where many are out of place and out of position because they do not realize who they are in Christ. The importance of accepting our God-given identity and sticking to it was highlighted. We must be patient, seek tutelage, and study to grow in our faith. The sermon also touched on the need to use the gifts God has given us, whether as apostles, prophets, pastors, evangelists, or teachers, and to operate within our God-ordained roles.
Furthermore, we were encouraged to trust God even when the path seems unclear. God is looking for people who will say "yes" to His call, not just within the church but also in the marketplace. We need to shine our light in all areas of life, including business and community service. The message concluded with a powerful reminder that God is waiting for our "yes" to bring about transformation in our lives and the lives of those around us.
### Key Takeaways
1. God is Depending on You: We are called to be the light of the world, shining brightly so that others may see our good works and glorify God. This requires us to understand and accept our identity in Christ, and to remain steadfast in our faith and calling. [44:16]
2. Embrace Your God-Given Identity: The church is suffering from an identity crisis because many do not realize who they are in Christ. Accepting and embracing our God-given identity is crucial for fulfilling our purpose. We must seek tutelage, study, and grow in our faith to be effective in our roles. [45:23]
3. Use Your Gifts Wisely: God has given each of us unique gifts and roles, such as apostles, prophets, pastors, evangelists, and teachers. It is essential to operate within these roles and not try to be someone else. Embracing and using our gifts wisely will help us fulfill God's purpose for our lives. [46:48]
4. Trust God in Uncertainty: Trusting God even when the path is unclear is vital. God is looking for people who will say "yes" to His call, regardless of the circumstances. This trust and obedience will lead to transformation and blessings in our lives and the lives of those around us. [47:52]
5. Shine Your Light Beyond the Church: Our calling is not limited to the church; we must take the anointing God gives us and shine our light in the marketplace and community. God is looking for entrepreneurs, mortgage lenders, and others who will bring His light into all areas of life. [48:52]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[17:50] - Introduction and Praise
[39:28] - Musical Selection by Evangelist Crystal Aiken
[41:41] - Declaration of God's Blessings
[42:30] - Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:14-16
[44:16] - God is Depending on You
[45:23] - Embrace Your God-Given Identity
[46:48] - Use Your Gifts Wisely
[47:52] - Trust God in Uncertainty
[48:52] - Shine Your Light Beyond the Church
[50:58] - Call to Trust and Obedience
[52:46] - Acknowledging God's Guidance
[54:38] - Responsibility to God
[56:58] - God's Grace and Favor
[57:17] - God's Promises and Delays
[01:00:27] - God's Dependence on Us
[01:01:22] - Favor and Blessings
[01:04:15] - Struggles and Sacrifices
[01:04:55] - Positioning for God's Release
[01:05:34] - Apostolic Help and Transformation
[01:07:45] - Final Encouragement and Closing
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Matthew 5:14-16 (KJV): "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a 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. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Matthew 5:14-16, what are believers compared to, and what is their purpose?
2. In the sermon, what was the main reason given for why the church is suffering from an identity crisis? ([44:16])
3. What are the different roles mentioned in the sermon that God has given to believers, and why is it important to operate within these roles? ([46:48])
4. How did the speaker describe the importance of trusting God even when the path is unclear? ([47:52])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to be the "light of the world" in the context of Matthew 5:14-16, and how does this apply to our daily lives?
2. How can understanding and accepting our God-given identity help resolve the identity crisis within the church? ([44:16])
3. Why is it crucial to use the gifts God has given us wisely, and what might be the consequences of not doing so? ([46:48])
4. What are some practical ways to trust God when the future seems uncertain, as discussed in the sermon? ([47:52])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life: Are there areas where you feel you are not letting your light shine as brightly as it could? What steps can you take to change this? ([43:08])
2. Have you ever struggled with understanding your identity in Christ? What resources or actions can help you embrace your God-given identity more fully? ([44:16])
3. Think about the gifts and talents God has given you. Are you using them to their fullest potential within your God-ordained role? If not, what changes can you make to better utilize these gifts? ([46:48])
4. Share a time when you had to trust God despite uncertainty. How did that experience shape your faith, and what can you learn from it to apply to current or future uncertainties? ([47:52])
5. In what ways can you shine your light beyond the church, in your workplace, community, or other areas of life? Identify one specific action you can take this week to be a light in these areas. ([48:52])
6. How can you encourage others in your small group or church community to embrace their God-given identity and use their gifts wisely? What role can you play in supporting them?
7. Consider the call to say "yes" to God’s plans. Is there something God is calling you to do that you have been hesitant about? What steps can you take to respond with a wholehearted "yes"? ([50:58])
Devotional
Day 1: God is Depending on You
We are called to be the light of the world, shining brightly so that others may see our good works and glorify God. This requires us to understand and accept our identity in Christ, and to remain steadfast in our faith and calling. God has placed a unique purpose within each of us, and He is depending on us to fulfill it. Our past lives, filled with distractions and indulgences, should not overshadow our commitment to worship and praise God with enthusiasm and dedication.
As we embrace our role as the light of the world, we must remember that our actions and attitudes can lead others to glorify God. This is not just a call to personal holiness but a call to influence and impact the world around us. By living out our faith authentically, we can draw others to the love and grace of God. [44:16]
Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV): "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
Reflection: Think of one way you can let your light shine in your community this week. How can your actions lead others to glorify God?
Day 2: Embrace Your God-Given Identity
The church is suffering from an identity crisis because many do not realize who they are in Christ. Accepting and embracing our God-given identity is crucial for fulfilling our purpose. We must seek tutelage, study, and grow in our faith to be effective in our roles. Understanding who we are in Christ helps us to stand firm in our calling and resist the pressures to conform to the world.
When we embrace our identity in Christ, we can operate from a place of confidence and security. This allows us to serve God and others more effectively. It is important to remember that our identity is not based on our past mistakes or current circumstances but on who God says we are. By embracing this truth, we can live out our purpose with boldness and clarity. [45:23]
1 Peter 2:9 (ESV): "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you struggled with your identity in Christ. How can you remind yourself of your God-given identity daily?
Day 3: Use Your Gifts Wisely
God has given each of us unique gifts and roles, such as apostles, prophets, pastors, evangelists, and teachers. It is essential to operate within these roles and not try to be someone else. Embracing and using our gifts wisely will help us fulfill God's purpose for our lives. Each gift is important and contributes to the overall mission of the church.
Using our gifts wisely means recognizing and valuing the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ. It also means being faithful stewards of the talents and abilities God has entrusted to us. By doing so, we can build up the church and advance God's kingdom. It is important to seek God's guidance and the support of the community as we develop and use our gifts. [46:48]
Romans 12:6-8 (ESV): "Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness."
Reflection: Identify one gift that God has given you. How can you use this gift to serve others and glorify God this week?
Day 4: Trust God in Uncertainty
Trusting God even when the path is unclear is vital. God is looking for people who will say "yes" to His call, regardless of the circumstances. This trust and obedience will lead to transformation and blessings in our lives and the lives of those around us. It is often in times of uncertainty that our faith is tested and strengthened.
When we trust God in uncertainty, we acknowledge His sovereignty and goodness. We may not always understand His plans, but we can trust that He is working all things for our good. This trust requires us to surrender our fears and doubts to God and to rely on His wisdom and guidance. By doing so, we can experience His peace and provision in every situation. [47:52]
Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Reflection: Think of a current situation where you feel uncertain. How can you actively trust God and seek His guidance in this situation?
Day 5: Shine Your Light Beyond the Church
Our calling is not limited to the church; we must take the anointing God gives us and shine our light in the marketplace and community. God is looking for entrepreneurs, mortgage lenders, and others who will bring His light into all areas of life. Our faith should influence every aspect of our lives, including our work and community involvement.
Shining our light beyond the church means being intentional about living out our faith in everyday situations. It means being a witness to God's love and truth in our interactions with others. By doing so, we can make a positive impact on the world around us and draw others to Christ. This requires us to be bold and courageous in sharing our faith and living out our values. [48:52]
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
Reflection: How can you shine your light in your workplace or community this week? What specific actions can you take to be a witness for Christ in these areas?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "I came to release to about a few of you that are here tonight, that God is literally getting ready to release some things in your life that has been held up. I see God has anointed me with the ability to speak wealth over an individual." [41:41] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your father, which is in heaven." [43:08] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The best thing that you can do in life is to come to the realization of who you are. And accept that. And move forward and walk in what God has for you." [46:48] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God is looking for some people that will shine your light at the bank. God is looking for some mortgage lenders. God is looking for somebody that will say, God, I'll do what you say. And God just anoint me." [47:52] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "God is looking for somebody that he can depend on. I got to get out of here. But as I get ready to take my seat, I want you to understand. I said, give me all of it. Let's go. The Bible says. He's waiting. On a yes." [50:58] (92 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "The church I have found, Bishop Hubbard, is suffering with an identity crisis. The problem is we are out of place and out of position because we don't realize who we are. I came to submit to you on tonight that once you discover who you are, accept it. And once you accept it, you've got to learn how to sit and understand how to get tutelage. And to train and study." [44:16] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "You've got to learn how to use what God has given you. The Bible says in Ephesians that he gave some apostles. He gave some prophets. He gave some pastors and evangelists and teachers. You've got to learn how to operate where God has placed you." [46:48] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "God called us to do other things than preach. He called us to do. We've got to take the anointing that God gives us in here and take it to the marketplace. Y'all don't get me. You've got to be able to be more than just a bishop. In the Lord's church, God is looking for some entrepreneurs." [47:52] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The Bible says here so significantly, once God put his hands on your life, and once he has called you for this moment, you've got to light up the world. You've got to be that city on the inside." [48:52] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I promise you post it on Facebook post it Instagram Snapchat wherever you want to put it but if you struggle to come to this conference I promise you by the end of next week this time God is going to meet every need." [01:04:15] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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