Scripture to Read: Matthew 5:16
Jesus said this in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” So, we know we are light because Christ lives in us, and He is Light. Jesus makes it clear how to shine our light brightly. We are to do the good works God has for us to do. As people watch us, they evaluate our fellowship with Christ and His work through us as they see how we serve Him. The works that we do each day include everything that we are involved in. Another way to explain what Jesus is saying is in Colossians 3:17, “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” We are to do everything in Christ’s name, continually giving thanks to Him as we accomplish our tasks each day. We do all of this so that God is glorified through us. When we get lazy and apathetic about our tasks, we dishonor our Lord, and we dim the light of Him in us because we are allowing our fleshly nature to be in control. But when we say and do everything in a manner that honors our Lord, then His light shines brightly through us and people notice God’s handiwork in and through our lives. We must daily guard our hearts against the lazy, apathetic attitude that permeates so many people around us. We must exercise His discipline in us and always shine for Him.
Challenge & Application
· How have you shined brightly for our Lord so that others have seen your good works and they know you are His?
· How have you seen other Christians shining brightly for our Lord in how they’ve done their work for our Lord?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!