Each and every one of Jesus’ disciples was and is "a diamond in the rough". "Every diamond does not shine alike. Some can never shine because they have never been cut. The brilliancy of the light depends largely upon the character of its facets. Three things are needed to make us shine: (1) We must be diamonds. Saved ones, precious in His sight. (2) We must be cut. Fashioned after His own will. (3) We must abide in the light. In His light we shall see light, and be lights in the world". (James Smith. Hands On Purpose. Volume II. Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1997 (reprinted), p.
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