From the pen of Charles Spurgeon
We should never seek publicity for our own virtue or notoriety for our
own zeal, but it is a sin to continually seek to hide what God has bestowed on us for the good of others.
A Christian is not a village hidden in a valley, but “a city on a hill”; not “a
lamp… put… under a bowl” but “put… on its stand” so “it gives light to
everyone” (Matthew 5:14-15). Intentionally withdrawing has its place at times,
and hiding one’s self is no doubt modest, but the hiding of Christ in us can
never be justified, and holding back the truth that is precious to us is a sin
against others and an offence against God.
If you tend toward shyness, be careful you don’t indulge your trembling
tendency too much, lest you become useless to the church. Instead, in the name
of Him who was not ashamed of you, seek to do some “violence” to your own
feeling and be determined to tell others what Christ has taught you. You don’t
have a booming voice? Then use “a still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12). You don’t
have a pulpit and are never quoted by the media? Then say with Peter, “Silver or
gold I do not have, but what I have I give you” (Acts 3:6). If you can’t preach
a sermon on a mount, speak to the “Samaritan woman” (John 4:7) by the well; if
not in the temple, declare the praise of Jesus in a house; if not in the
marketplace, in a field; if not in the middle of masses, in your own household.
From the hidden spring within you, allow the sweetly flowing streams of
testimony to flow, giving drink to every passerby. Never hide your talents, but
“trade” them in the market place and you will bring good return to your Master.
Speaking for God is refreshing ourselves, encouraging to His saints, useful to
sinners and honouring to the Saviour. A mute child is an affliction to his parents.
Lord, unloose Your children’s
tongues
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