(Matthew 5:14-16)
14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; 15 nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Your light must shine before people in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.TODAY'S TAKEAWAY
We've all heard the phrase about specific people being able to "light up a room" as soon as they enter. As well, celebrities are referred to as "stars". Well, these verses do not refer to either of those, especially because it is all about those people and their personal abilities and popularity. All the accolades, compliments and glory goes to them, and to them alone.
Obviously, in these verses, "light" is used as an allegory or illustration. Physical light is a brightness that is emitted from a source of energy, either from a lamp, or fire, or it is a light that is reflecting a source of light. Just so, as believers, we are to reflect God's light that is within us. Also, just as light overtakes the darkness, salvation and life in Christ has victory over sin, death and darkness.
The only source of spiritual light is the Lord God - who is light! God's light is pure and brilliant and overcomes the darkness! His light gently exposes sin, enlightens hearts and minds with truth and its knowledge, which - when accepted into one's heart, soul and life - embeds God's spiritual purity.
Because it is all about having a personal relationship with the Lord, we should desire to follow Him closely because of His love, and because we have chosen to love Him back. In that moment of being born again, we receive His indwelling Holy Spirit, so that for all eternity He is right there with us to continue lighting our way.
Since we have God's light within us, we should not be hiding this relationship, or be afraid to share. Just like having the coolest, nicest friend, whom we love to introduce to others, we should be more than eager to introduce the Lord to all those around us as we have the opportunity. And as we live in such a way that shines out God's love, there will be people who will notice and ask about it. And since God is omnipresent, it's not like we can keep Him all to ourselves! He is everywhere! Therefore, as we help to illuminate God's truths, people's spiritual eyes can be opened to see and meet Him.
No need to worry. God will give us the courage, strength and guidance in how we can be effective in shining His light out to the world. He will continue to enlighten us with His moral and spiritual truth and guidance. He will light the way for us. Although, it is still up to us to be obedient and follow where He leads and directs! In this obedience, we will be like a light on a lampstand so that others can witness how God is working in our lives, and see God's love, truth and His righteous path. In this obedience, we will be accomplishing good works that glorify the Lord!
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