In our Focal Scripture, Jesus makes mention of a city that is set on a hill that cannot be hid. In bible times, when nation came against nation, sometimes, the way out was for the attacked nation to run into the mountains to live in houses and caves (see Judges 6). The idea was to escape from the enemies. So a city on a hill is like a city that has overcome in warfare. A city on a hill may be at an advantage over the enemies, but still has enemies.
Friend, when you begin to shine, always remember that battles will come. Some battles will come because God has blessed you. There are battles that will come your way because some men are uncomfortable with your shining. There are battles that will come your way because there are men who do not want you to rise further than you have risen. There are battles that will come your way when your influence goes global.
If God has empowered you to be a great light, then step up in the place of warfare where you are at advantage over the enemy. As your light shines, let your prayer fire increase even more. As your light shines, be more watchful and prayerful. As you rise higher and hit more targets, do not take the place of your intimacy with God lightly. As you bask in greatness, be mindful that there are battles all around, seeking your downfall.
It is an error to be a shining light on the same level as those who want to take you down. It is an error to start shining and still remain on the same level as the evil that wants to consume you. It is an error for your prayer fire to be too small to handle the battles that are attached to your higher levels. Today, I pray for you: may you not be swallowed by the battles that come the way of great men. May your rising not lead to your downfall.
Greatness is not for the fainthearted; global visibility is not for them that are afraid to go head to head with the gates of hell. Get ready to conquer the gates of hell. Get set to win every battle of your shining.
