The Bible teaches us that the world is beautiful, full of God’s good gifts. People are made in his image, and thus of immeasurable worth. However the world and humanity are shot through with brokenness. This means that human hearts, and our enemy the evil one, will sometimes oppose the renewal of community, work and places. While we work for renewal, we resolve to walk with integrity, serve with excellence and diligence, just like Daniel. We resolve to let our good conduct witness to Christ, like a lamp on a stand, lighting up a house.
Reflection Questions
1. Can you think of a time when someone doing their job (a doctor, plumber, accountant) served you really well. What was it about their work that was so helpful to you?
2. In Matthew 5.13-16 Jesus uses two images to describe the influence of the discipleship community in the world, and our influence in the City of Frankston. In Jesus’ day, how could what was known as salt lose saltiness? What two purposes of salt are lost, when salt lost saltiness?
3. Is it possible to be a salty preserving agent in our society, or bring the light of truth to our society, without standing out?
4. What fears stand in the way of you and allowing Christ’s work in you be more visible to your friends? (eg. fears of disapproval, fear of failure, fear of criticism).
5. Daniel, in Daniel chapter 6.1-5, was extremely useful to King Darius because of his competence, honesty and diligence. Which of these three qualities are you stronger in? Which would you like to ask Jesus to help you grow?
6. The Lord saved his servant Daniel from the lion’s paw. What promise does our Lord make us in the Gospel, even if we face opposition for our walk and witness in the City of Frankston? (eg. 1 Corinthians 15.42-58). How does this promise address the fears you identified (question 4).
Praise and Worship Videos
’Jesus Your Mercy’, Sovereign Grace Music.
Hillsong, ‘Christ is Enough’.
‘O For a Thousand Tongues’, Charles Wesley, click here.