February
• God’s Love to Us • Our Love for God • Love for Our Fellow-man
February 1
WALK IN THE LIGHT
Bernard Barton, 1784–1849
But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from every sin. (1 John 1:7)
How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Savior
Led in paths of light.
—E. Hewitt
Walking in the light means walking as Christ walked while here on earth—seeking to imitate His life style in all that we do. When we walk in the light, our paths become illuminated and purposeful, and there is a glow of warmth and love in our lives that makes us want to care for the needs of others. This life of love is not merely a soft sentimental feeling—but rather a life of action.
Sometimes we as Christians seem to minimize this basic quality in our lives. We spend our time seeking the unusual and “deep” truths of the Scriptures or arguing with those with whom we may differ. A life devoid of Christ’s tender love for others, both fellow-believers and non-believers, can negate much of our Christian witness. The Bible teaches that a life without love, counts for nothing (1 Corinthians 13:1–3).
Walking in the light is in the present tense. It is a new experience with God each day. It is always helpful to recall God’s faithfulness and leading in the past. But our past blessings must always be blended into the present wonder of walking this day with the Lord.
The author of “Walk in the Light,” Bernard Barton, was known as England’s “Quaker Poet.” Although he never rose above the position of a bank clerk, his reputation as a man of letters was recognized by many literary leaders of his day. In all, Barton had 10 books of verse published, from which about 20 hymns came into usage.
“Walk in the Light” first appeared in Barton’s Devotional Verses, published in 1926. Make walking in the light your experience today.
Walk in the light! So shalt thou know that fellowship of love His Spirit only can bestow, who reigns in light above.
Walk in the light! And thou shalt find thy heart made truly His, who dwells in cloudless light enshrined, in Whom no darkness is.
Walk in the light! And thou shalt own thy darkness passed away, because that light hath on thee shone in which is perfect day.
Walk in the light! And thine shall be a path, though thorny, bright: For God, by grace, shall dwell in thee, and God Himself is light.
For Today:
Psalm 36:9; John 8:12; Romans 12:10; 2 Corinthians 4:6
Consciously leave time in your schedule to be responsive to the needs of another. Share Christ and His love with them.
