DAY 17 – Being Light as God Intended | 21-Day Devotional on Jesus’ Beatitudes and Sermon on the Mount

Matthew 5:14-15, You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 

For many of us who are not naturally outgoing, and even somewhat introverted, the concept of being a light to the world, goes opposite our nature.

But Jesus made it very clear that what He gave us was not only for us. The life, peace, and joy that we possess was designed by God to be shared. It is part of the purpose for which he created us. What we don't need to see is a show or any kind of a spiritual circus act–bringing glory to self, and not to God. There are many ways to let your light shine without treating it like a spotlight meant for performing.

Jesus said, "As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world" (John.9:5). When He said to His disciples You are the light of the world, it was a call to rearrange their priorities to serve God's greater purpose. We always have our privacy, but we do not dishonor God by allowing our light to be hidden.

Jesus did not say, “You are the light of the Church.”  He said, "You are the light of the world.” 

Three purposes for your light:

1. God designed light to be seen. This how we hold public meetings, publish works, use social media, and more. Just because I do things the wrong way does not mean we should do nothing. That would dishonor Jesus, while honoring human arrogance.

2. Light is a guide: and in our world of bright lights, we could not imagine existing in darkness, living only by candlelight at night as people did for centuries. When we shine our light, we help people. When we do not allow our light to shine, we permit the hurt and pain of people to continue.

3. Light can be warning. Just as can show the way to good places, it can also provide advance warning of dangers ahead.

So let your light shine by making the best of the opportunities God has provided.

Reflection questions:

1. In what ways is your light, your good works, seen by others?

2. How is your life, as a light, guiding others?

3. In what ways does your life, as a light, help others avoid dangers?