”In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16New International Version (NIV)
Matthew 5:16 Devotional
Let Your Light Shine
Let your light shine (Matthew 5:16) is Jesus Christ’s call, elevation, and command to you and me. Remember, Jesus is the light of all mankind (John 1:4-5, 12:46 and Colossians 1:13). He came and showed us the way to live in this world.
This world is in darkness (chaos) because of sin. Therefore, you are the only one who can allow the Light of Jesus Christ to shine off you. You can achieve this by not apologizing for or hiding who you are, a Christian, even in church.
Remember, Jesus said that light cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14-15). And similarly, Jesus has elevated us so that we can give light to all mankind. He has set us apart (2 Corinthians 5:17 and John 17:14-15) so that we can evangelize and take a biblical stand on societal issues.
Therefore, you will convict unbelievers of their need for a Saviour and challenge believers to live godly lives. This was Jesus’ theme in Matthew 5:1-20.
Your light is your conduct
You are more than you think. Therefore, light up your world with your Christian conduct. Just like a source of light, you are who you are for the benefit of many – you are not a secret.
Your light (conduct) will offer guidance and illumination (warmth and exposure of evil). That is, your light will enable those around you not to slip and fall. And if they unfortunately do, then your light will enable them to rise up.
The world has placed you under its watch. All those that are around you are watching your conduct. And this is because of who you are to the world around you.
Therefore, let others see Christ in you. God’s goodness and mercy must be seen in your attitudes, words, and actions. The opposite of this implies that you have no relationship with the Light or you are dishonoring the Light.
So go on and light the world around you with the Light of Jesus Christ.
Prayer/Blessing
Lord, I exalt You for making me a light to the world around me. I am going to let my light shine. So help me, Lord; for this is my prayer in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
May you let your light, the Light of Jesus Christ, shine before others. Amen.
Daily Bible Reading
Deuteronomy 1-2 (see How to Read the Bible in One Year or How to Read the Bible (for Beginners))
