“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house.” (Matthew 5:14-15)
The sight of a shooting star fills most people with a sense of awe and enthusiasm; it shoots across the sky leaving a trail of light behind that is awesome and beautiful. What would it be like to have others think of you in the same manner as you pass them by, or in the way that you interact with them? I think God looks down upon us and is very proud of the way each one of us (shines!) and expresses our love through glorifying Him; there are many ways, and shining your light is just one of them! Christians are the light of the world; Ephesians 5:8 says “For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!” Simply put, we should be a light to others in our attitudes, words, encouragement, and compassion as a testimony of our authentic faith and trust.
“The one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.” (Romans 12:8 ESV)
I love surrounding myself around charismatic people, and associating with an enthusiastic crowd because they are contagious; when one person has it then everyone wants to share the same love, laughter, and optimism that shines through them. Our light is meant to be seen by everyone. We should be the same whether we are at home, at work, shopping, or in church. Despite our troubles and heartaches, we can maintain the light of God in our hearts because we have learned to rejoice in all things and at all times. Our faces should shine with the glory of God, so that we can build each other up and encourage one another.
"For you are all children of the light and of the day, and do not belong to darkness and night." (2 Thessalonians 5:5)
Just like the light that is left behind from a shooting star, Christians should bring warmth and delight to others, and shine forth as a bright light by providing inspiration, laughter, and assistance. Something magical happens when we put our focus on encouraging and making others shine; not only does it just feel good, it brings great value and joy to those around us. :)
Oh, Denise...this is such a GREAT post! Where do you get your inspiration? I pray that I can be like a shooting star...thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Mary
I have seen shooting stars and they are truly amazing! It is good to give thanks to the Lord and sing praises to His name. Most high...whether we are facing darkness or walking in season of blessing. I think authenticity is so key. We are light BUT we are real light. The kind that shines even when circumstances want to snuff us out! Thanks for being light, Denise!
ReplyDeleteShining Christ's Light is infectious! I love that about Him. When we show His love to others, it spreads and grows. Some people know nothing about our Lord, but through our actions and kindness, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus!
ReplyDeleteBlessings, Joan
Hi Denise ~ This is a great post. We should bring warmth and shine forth as a bright light to others just as Christ did for us. Have a blessed day...Chelle
ReplyDeleteThis reminds me of a saying ....' If you shoot for the moon but miss, at least you will land amongst the stars.' Great post :) I have a bit of fun happening Monday night (Australia) time so hope you pop by and check it out :) All the best Lovely.
ReplyDeleteHi Denise, I was just reading Ephesians 5 this morning. A great reminder to let the light of Christ shine through us that others may be blessed by the kindness and compassion of the Lord.
ReplyDeleteEncouraging others blesses others and brings joy to both them and ourselves.
Blessings,
Janis
I love it! Thank you for your inspiration mama!
ReplyDeleteAmen, indeed we should shine brightly His love and glory wherever we go and in everything we do. Great post Denise!
ReplyDeleteI have to relearn the art of being worry-free. Good post.
ReplyDeleteHi Denise - so true, worry does nothing for you, just ages us. I love the scriptures you've used here. Worry just steals your time. Turning over our worries to God is the only way.
ReplyDeleteThank you my friend for linking up with me. I appreciate it
God bless
Tracy
Hi Denise,
ReplyDeleteWow, I just published a post on worry causing a lack of concentration in my prayers and my reading. (I also referenced Matthew 6.) Then I just came from another blog which mentioned worry, then came here and read your post. I think maybe the Lord is trying to tell me something. I can be a worry wort. Thank you for this much needed post and God bless,
Ken