Let Your Light Shine

The very first command we find Jesus speaking in the Gospels is this:

“let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16

Notice that Jesus says the purpose of others seeing our good works is so they will give glory to our Father in Heaven. He does not say that good works are how we get to Heaven. He does not say to do good deeds so others will admire us. All of the glory for what we do is to be directed to God, not ourselves.

We know the way to Heaven. Jesus is the way. He is the only way.
He said so Himself.

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
John 14:6

Yes, Jesus is the only way to the Father. He is our salvation. And because we believe in Him and trust in Him, we are saved. Nothing else is required but don’t you want to go above and beyond the minimum requirement for your Lord and Savior? Everything in me wants to serve Him. Not out of obligation, not to earn anything, but because I feel overwhelmed with gratitude for what He’s done for me.

If you love Me, obey My commands.”
John 14:15

So, how can you let your light shine as Jesus instructs? The answer is different for each follower but here are some general ideas.

Love the people around you as selflessly as you can manage.
Be generous with everything God has blessed you with. Give your time, money, talents, knowledge, attention, and gifts. Share all that you have unreservedly and gladly.
Forgive quickly, graciously, and completely, even when the offense is serious, and even when the person isn’t sorry and doesn’t appear to deserve to be forgiven. (More on this in a future post!)
Be content with the circumstances and blessings the Lord has chosen for you. (More on this later, too!)
Give God the glory for every blessing, achievement, and success. No matter how hard you worked for something, it was God who gave you the opportunity and ability.

Some of these things may seem unconventional in our self-obsessed culture, but it’s the difference that will make your light shine all the brighter in a dark world.

What are some ways you have let your light shine lately?
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