SHINE

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

   

                We live in a dark world surrounded by sin, anger, hatred and confusion. Darkness symbolizes satan’s domain. But Jesus Christ is Light. In John 8:12 He says, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” Also, Jesus commanded us to be the light of the world. 

                 How we do shine bright for Jesus? Romans 13:12 says, ‘therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.’ Self-denial is the key. We must say no to our desires of flesh and let God increase in our lives. He is the source of light. Shining for God’s purpose, doesn’t happen in a day; it is a lifetime process. Nowadays, many Christians crave fame and recognition by everyone around them. With the growing number of famous singers, pastors and social media influencers, it makes everyone want their share of it. But that is not for what we are called. Our light must shine in order to bring glory to our God. We must pause and examine our daily activities and our intentions, whether it is to  glorify the Almighty God or for our name. 

               Every one desires to shine for Jesus, but not all are ready to burn out for Him. In the process of giving out light, a candle should burn and melt away. Likewise we must die to our ‘self’, so we can portray our Savior’s love. Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”(Matthew 16:24) Our goals should never be intended to bring us recognition, but to give God all the glory. May God give us the grace to deny ourselves, and embrace humility in our lives; to shine brighter and burn out for the glory of God. Amen!