“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
We like to make things complicated, but this command of Jesus is quite simple. As followers of Christ, we’re the light of the world. If you’re a follower of Jesus, you’re the light of the world. You have the light of Jesus Christ within you and you need to consistently shine it wherever you are in this world so that non-believers can see the goodness, kindness, holiness, love, and mercy of God through your good works. This will change their impression and understanding of God, leading them to praise and give glory to Him. It’s that simple.
Obviously, we live in challenging times. It’s easy to get frustrated, discouraged, and angry about the world situation and your own personal situation. That’s natural, but it doesn’t shine your Christ-light before others. It’s tempting to hunker down and spend time only with your closest believing friends. That’s natural, but it doesn’t shine your Christ-light before others. It’s tempting to give your spleen, give people what for, and let your disappointment, anger, fear, or frustration hang out – either in personal interactions or in electronic interactions. That’s natural, but it doesn’t shine your Christ-light before others.
It’s time to astonish the world by your good works, your good heart, and your good spirit! It’s time to shine that Christ-light, even when you’re angry, upset, discouraged, or frustrated. The Holy Spirit within you gives you that power. Discipline yourself never to pour out your darkness in public but to always shine your light of Jesus around others, so they too may know and give glory to God!