Daily Encounter: A Week-day Devotional by a staff of ACTS International.

Thursday, January 8, 2026

Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.¹ 

According to an article in Turning Point Daily Devotional, "Fritz Kreisler (1875-1962), the world-famous violinist, earned a fortune with his concerts and compositions, but he generously gave most of it away. So, when he discovered an exquisite violin on one of his trips, he was not able to buy it. Later, having raised enough money to meet the asking price, he returned to the seller, hoping to purchase that beautiful instrument.

But to his great dismay, it had been sold to a collector. Kreisler made his way to the home of the new owner and offered to buy the violin. The collector said it had become his prized possession, and he would not sell it. Keenly disappointed, Kreisler was about to leave when he had an idea. "Could I play the instrument once more before it is consigned to silence?" he asked. Permission was granted, and the great virtuoso filled the room with such heart-moving music that the emotions of the collector were deeply stirred. "I have no right to keep that to myself," he exclaimed. "It is yours, Mr. Kreisler. Take it into the world, and let people hear it."²

We have a beautiful message to share. God created us as exquisite instruments, and the beautiful music we are to make is the Good News of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. May our lives be a masterpiece that brings others to the Composer of our song.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, help my light so shine that it will be like music to those listening and draw them to You, the great Songwriter. To you be all the honor and glory forever. In the name of Jesus, amen.

1. Matthew 5:15-16 (NIV).
2. Turning Point Daily Devotional. Cited on Preaching Now http://www.preaching.com.

Today's Encounter was written by: Crystal B. 

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