Even so, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16 WEB
Matthew chapter five opens with the beatitudes. These eight blessings are some of the most famous words ever recorded in human history. Jesus then blesses his disciples saying in Matthew 5:11-12, “Blessed are you when people reproach you, persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you. WEB”
Christ continues, calling his disciples the salt of the earth and the light of the world. In doing this, Jesus prepared his followers for ministry. With these words the Lord encouraged his followers to share the good news of the gospel, “let your light shine before men.” He wants his disciples to actively demonstrate good works in order to glorify God.
Even today, it is important that we let the light of Christ shine in our lives. When we claim to be Christians, people are watching and notice whether we are sincere or not. Interacting with others, we either fulfill the will of God for our lives or we disappoint.
In the Midst of Wolves
No matter how sincere, we are not always well received when sharing the truth of the gospel. As Christ said, in Matthew 10:16, “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore, be wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. WEB” It is critical to understand that we represent our faith when we interact with others.
When you let your light shine, you display the fruit of the Holy Spirit. We read what these fruits are in Galatians 5:22-23 which says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. WEB” When we present with kindness, truth, and self-control, we can rejoice in any trouble that comes our way, knowing the reward that waits for us in heaven.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for your holy word. Give me wisdom. Help me to live a life that honors and glorifies you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Endure Hardship
