Son Light, Not Spotlight

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.

Also, people do not light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand.

Then it gives light to everyone in the house.

In the same way, let your light shine in front of others.

Then they will see the good things you do and they will praise the Father in Heaven.”

Matthew 5:16

Who doesn’t want to be held in high esteem for the good things we do? It feels good to be noticed when we make a sacrifice or go above and beyond. It’s only natural; however, when we do good for the applause of others, we are making it all about us and that is idolatry, pure and simple. We have taken the place of the only ONE who is deserving of praise.

Why then, did Jesus tell his followers that they should be sure to let others see the good they were doing? Because it is our task to make God known.

Always make sure that the light shining is not an exterior light that illuminates your good deeds, but an interior light on the Spirit of God living within you. The presence of God in you will create a new you and others will know that there is something supernatural about your attitude and actions.

The Spirit of God doesn’t take breaks. When the kids are naughty, that light is still within you. When your husband doesn’t help you around the house, that light is still inside you. When the finances are stretched to the breaking point, still the light shines. When your wife seems cold and distant, that light is still on. With every worry and unlovely attitude, we wrap ourselves in self-pity and the light that brings life is draped in darkness. His light becomes obscure.

Learn to walk with God and allow that Spirit within you to become the voice that you hear and the light that guides. As it shines, with no obstructions from our refusal to listen and follow, there will be growth. You will bear fruit in your life that will be transforming to you and to your family. You won’t be blinding them with a light that points to their short-comings. You won’t be in the spotlight, proving how great you are doing. Rather, God will shine through you and will reveal Himself in the love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control that will become who you are and God will be the one who is praised.