Let Your Light Shine

 

 “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matt. 5:14-16

 I’ve been meditating on these verses the past couple of days. Specifically in ways of how I can be a light that is shining brightly. You see, I’m just a wife. My job is all via the Internet so I work from home. The people I spend most my time with are my family and my husband.

I’ve been pondering how this could apply to a person like me. Can those of us that aren’t rubbing shoulders with lost people every day still find ways to be a brightly shining light?

Actually, yes! I believe that God not only desires us to be a light to those who don’t know Him, but also to those who do. There are hundreds of little (and big!) opportunities God gives us each and every day.

In fact, I think the biggest opportunity comes the second we wake up. The attitude I demonstrate will instantly build my husband up or tear him down. A sweet smile to a sleepy child (or husband!) can be a way to light up their day. A word of encouragement or blessing as my husband leaves for work is a way I can shine.

If you are alert to God’s promptings, you will see many little ways each day in which you can be a light. You hear about a friend who is hurting…write them a small note to let them know you’re praying. A new neighbor moves into your neighborhood…bake a batch of cookies for them. Your husband seems tired from work…spend time rubbing his shoulders. Make something a little extra special for dinner. Read a book to your child. Ask a family member how you can be praying for them today.

There are so many ways we can be a light to those we around and show God’s love to them. It reminds me of a song my Mom used to sing to me when I was little:

Jesus bids us shine

With a pure, clear light,

Like a little candle

Burning in the night.

In this world of darkness

So let us shine—

You in your small corner,

And I in mine.

Jesus bids us shine,

First of all for Him;

Well He sees and knows it,

If our light grows dim.

He looks down from Heaven

To see us shine—

You in your small corner,

And I in mine.

Jesus bids us shine,

Then, for all around;

Many kinds of darkness

In the world are found—

Sin and want and sorrow;

So we must shine—

You in your small corner,

And I in mine.

Is your light shining brightly today?