"Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.
But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them."
2 Corinthians 4:1-4
Lots of good stuff here, but the thing I was thinking about what the significantly lowercase "god of this world" part. I'm guessing that is referring to Satan, since he calls himself that sometimes, and the footnote agrees. He would want to get in the way of the light of the image of the (capitalized) God and blind people.
So, keeping that in mind, that Satan tries to blind people's minds, and they are then "lost," the first part becomes a lot clearer. We're supposed to be demonstrating the truth in everything we do, so that the spirit can touch people's hearts and help them to be found again... to come out of that wilderness of darkness and into the light and warmth of God's love. ... And you know, I guess that sounds a little smarmy on the surface, but when we've felt the difference it makes sense, and I think it also gives us a sense of urgency, to try to help people that are out there wandering in Satan's darkness. ... Not deceitfully or trying to trick anyone into listening, but just saying and living the plain truth, and praying that the spirit will use us to touch lives and reconnect people to God.
Today, let's do our best to live up to the mercy we have been granted, manifesting the truth of the word of God, so that it can no longer be hidden. :)
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