You cannot read scripture without recognizing that God wants to shine the light of Jesus through each of us to the world. Not trying to be Mr. Judgmental but it seems only a small percentage of us are doing this. This would make no sense to the Apostles Paul and Peter or any of the New Testament authors. Many of us go to our jobs and other places without folks knowing that we are a believer in Jesus, a light to this world. Let’s take a brief look at scripture together to see what it says about being a light.
First, our light has to have power to shine just like a light bulb is plugged into a electrical socket for its source of power. “And Jesus came and spoke unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth” (Matthew 28:18). Our source of power is Jesus not our talent, charisma, resourcefulness, riches, good looks etc. Without Him, our light cannot shine.
His power is perfected in our weakness. “But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9). The more we recognize our weakness and depend upon Him for our source of power, the brighter our light gets.
The Bible states that our light will be on display to others, and they will see our lifestyle as a light that glorifies Jesus. Matthews 5:14-16 declares, 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. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” This passage is clear. Our light is not hidden but “put on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” Then he tells us what light looks like. “Let you light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Our lifestyle reflects the light of Jesus doing good deeds that translate His love to others. These deeds are done for the glory of Jesus not for our ego.
Our life must light up the world and declare His praises. 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
You may feel that your life is not all that dynamic. The good news is that once your life gets plugged into Jesus, He changes you. In our weakness His power is made strong. I pray each of us will determine in the power of the Holy Spirit, “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.” Because of Jesus, it will. AMEN!
Barnabas Man 