Have you ever noticed that in crime shows, detectives use flashlights when looking for evidence? Why is that? Because flashlights reveal things that a simple room light might miss. I notice this when I’m vacuuming. The light at the bottom of the vacuum reveals dust particles or dirt I may not see, things that a ceiling light misses. Sometimes I say… “Oh my goodness. This floor is dirtier than I thought.”
The Bible tells us that we are “lights of the world!” The moment we surrendered our lives to Jesus a light switch was turned on. At that moment, the light of the Kingdom of God was ignited in us. If our lights are working properly and shining like they are supposed to shine, we will be a revealer and an exposer. Our lights should always reveal truth and expose lies or deception. This is our mission.
Our key verse in Matthew 5:14 is part of Jesus’ longest sermon recorded… what we call the Sermon on the Mount. But Jesus goes on in this passage to say that a light may not always shine… sometimes it will be hidden: “No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly father” (Matthew 5:15-16).
So, let’s discuss what may dim our lights and what can illuminate our lights. Our lights may be dimmed or hidden from the world if we simply stay quiet and not speak out when we see an injustice or something that goes against God’s Word. Or when we go along with the crowd. Or when we sit on the fence with one foot in the world and one foot in the Kingdom… when we haven’t picked a side. Or when we sow seeds of discord or division. Or when we ignore people’s needs. Or when we never talk about Jesus. Or when we squash the gospel. Of course, we were never meant to operate this way. We are “lights” that are supposed to illuminate the darkness.
But Jesus said that we are to “let our good deeds shine out for all to see.” This the way to shine. So, let’s discuss what this may look like. Here are several ways to let our lights shine.
Compassion! Jesus showed deep compassion to everyone. We should too. This means that we show deep sympathy and sorrow for those who have been struck by misfortune.
Humility! Giving up your will and desires for God’s will and purposes is one way to humble yourself. And putting other needs above your own is another way. The Bible tells us that God cares for the humble. (Psalm 138:6).
Generosity! We should always be generous with our time and resources. Remember that everything you have belongs to God, so make sure that you give back what God has given to you.
Forgiveness! Forgiveness is not for the perpetrator but for you and me. We cannot live in freedom if we haven’t forgiven. Forgiveness can be VERY difficult especially if the pain goes really deep or it can be traced back to childhood. So, if you’re having a hard time forgiving, ask God to help you.
These are some of the most prominent ways to shine our lights for the Kingdom of God. Let’s let our lights shine on a hillside so everyone can see.