Tuesday, August 27, 2024
Have you ever met someone who exuded God’s love? I know quite a few Jesus followers who light up every room they walk into, and who genuinely portray God’s goodness. They are examples of God’s love, grace, and hope. In Matthew 5:14-15, Jesus instructs all of us to shine his light upon this world, showing the goodness of God in everything we do.
Matthew 5:14-15 NIV
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 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.”
Jesus teaches that we are the light of the entire world (Matthew 5:16). God’s light cannot be hidden, so it is foolish to hide it within us. No one hides a lamp when it is lit. Rather they put it where it can shine brightly and overcome the darkness. When we shine before others, they see the love and obedience that we have for God, ultimately glorifying him and showing the world his goodness.
God created us in his image, and our purpose on earth is to glorify him. Since we are made in the image of God, we are to portray the characteristics of God—his love, justice, grace, and more. Jesus was the light that God sent to the world, to show us how we should live and to save those who accept him from all of their sins (John 1:4-5). Shining our light on others reveals the joy of the Lord in our hearts and draws them closer to God. We are to show others hope in a fallen world and offer peace in the midst of the trials and pain that comes with it.
As we go about our week, let’s remember that we have God’s light within us. Although life can be difficult, this truth strengthens us, knowing that Jesus will defeat all pain and death forever. We must remember that we do not have to fear the darkness, for God’s light is within all followers of Jesus.
Questions:
How can we as Jesus followers shine our light on others?
How can we glorify God in our daily lives?
Next Steps:
Join a Group this fall to be a part of a community of Jesus followers who will encourage and help you to shine your light into the world.
This week, find one way to shine your light on others and show them the love of God.
21 Days of Prayer - Day 16
Focus: Surrender to Him (Romans 12:1)
Prayer:
Gracious God, I praise you for your generous gifts: the time you have given me, the resources you have provided, the relationships you have blessed me with, and the talents you have granted me. I offer them all back to you. I let go of my control. You are the owner; I am only a caretaker of what you have entrusted to me for a while. Everything is yours. God, direct my steps. Help me to hear and follow your voice. Teach me to rely on you and use what you have given me for your glory. May your will be done in me and through me. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Hebrews 3:14
For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ.
This post was written by Isabelle Billnitzer, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut Devotional.