“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”
Hearts of Light . . .
We can read about the ocean in a book.
We can learn about the ebb and flow of tides.
We can learn about the high concentration of salt in the air.
We can learn about the number of miles an ocean may span.
But it’s another thing completely to stand at the water’s edge.
To hear the rush of waves.
To taste the salt with every breath.
To gaze upon the immense liquid landscape that extends beyond the visible horizon.
Yes, we can lean about the ocean by acquiring facts and data, but when we experience the ocean firsthand, that’s when we truly understand its magnificence.
The Apostle Paul discovered this truth on the road to Damascus. Paul knew the Scriptures as well as anyone. He knew about Israel’s history. He knew about Mosaic Law. And he knew about the prophecies. Yet, he only knew about God.
Paul couldn’t fully know God until the light of Christ enveloped him and the voice of Christ spoke to him. In that moment, Paul experienced the truth of who God is in a totally new way. And it changed him forever.
The “light of the knowledge of God’s glory” isn’t something we can fully grasp until the light of Christ shines first in our hearts.
Like the Apostle Paul, when we meet the risen Christ, we bow before the magnificence of His greatness. His light dispels the darkness, which includes the darkness of our own understanding. This is also why we want to come to God’s Word, not only to learn about Him, but also to invite Him to speak to our hearts and to reveal Himself to us in totally new ways.
God’s Word is living and active, and through His Word, His light can penetrate our hearts — for His glory, for the light of all eternity.
Bev @ Walking Well With God says
Denise,
This is so true. I grew up in the church and knew all about God. I could tell you Bible stories verbatim, but it’s not about knowledge…it’s all about relationship. Not until I realized that something key was missing in my life, did I invite Christ in to my heart so that I might really get to KNOW Him. We all desperately need the light that Christ wants to shed in our heart and in our lives. My story may not be as dramatic as Paul’s, but I can testify that it was and is Christ who brings me out of the darkness. Have a wonderful Sabbath all…
Blessings,
Bev
Christina Tina Ocasio says
Amen!!!
AmyMae says
This is so poignant and true! I don’t think people start to really understand unconditional love until they experience that from another Christian. These are reasons why we can make a small but beautiful impact each and every day, by letting some of His love shine through us into the lives of others. Thank you for the inspiring words!
Rebecca Jones says
Bev is right, although I became a Christian at 11, I really sought the Holy Spirit out as an adult. That light really does shine! It bowled over Paul but the other’s didn’t get it. That happens sometimes too!
Beth Williams says
Denise,
This statement speaks to me: The “light of the knowledge of God’s glory” isn’t something we can fully grasp until the light of Christ shines first in our hearts. I was a nominal Christian growing up. I did church, choirs, etc. But I did not understand Christ! it wasn’t till a few years ago that it all clicked. I got “immersed” baptized & really feel Christ in me now! I want to know Him–really know Him and His suffering for me more now! I crave God time!! I want a relationship with Christ so close that I can go to Him for everything and anything! Letting my light shine in this dark world!!!
Blessings 🙂