“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Jesus states that “in the same way, let your light shine”. What is this “in the same way”?
In the verse right before this, Jesus talks about how when you turn on a lamp you do not cover up its light. You keep that light open to shine so that you and others can see. What good would it do you to turn on a lamp and then cover up the light so that you could not see it?
Now Jesus tells you to let your light shine in the same way. What is this light He is talking about? In the first chapter of John you can see that Jesus is the light of the world.
Jesus is light because He brings your awareness to the your world that God loves you and is willing to save you. Without His revelation you would not know that. Jesus has to turn on the light of God’s salvation for you to see it. As a sinner you live in a dark sinful world and can really see nothing.
The world wants you to see things of this world only. You are expected to believe the lies of fame and fortune. These things can take your eyes off of Jesus. Once you see the light of Jesus you begin to see things in reality.
Many believers try to say that being Christian is a personal thing. They do not feel they need to be open about it, except on Sunday in church. Each person is on their own. According to Jesus, once you see the light of Jesus, you must now share it. Do not hide it.
Showing off the light of Jesus can come in many different ways. It is seen in forgiveness and loving even when someone does you wrong. It is seen when you tell someone about what God has done for you and can do for him. It is seen in sharing when you see someone in need. It is seen when you pray with someone in need, and not just other believers, but with everyone. It is seen in how you do not participate in sinful acts.
How are you letting your light shine today and throughout your week? Is it shining in the open or do you have it covered? Is it bright or very dim or even turned off?
I pray today that you will let the light of Jesus shine in your life for the world to see; that God will give you the boldness to shine your light; that God will use the light through you to draw others to Himself; and that God’s kingdom will be built greater through the light shining out of your life.
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