“Let Your Light Shine Before Others”

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn,

for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

“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. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:3-16

We can all remember people who have “shined” in our lives. These would be people who have made a difference to us. No matter how large or small a person may be, they had a role in God’s world.

We think of sporting stars and political stars. Listen to what they say before you jump in to support what they do. Decide whether they are trying to spread the light or cover it up.

There is only one kind of life that truly wins, and that is the one that places faith in the hands of the Savior. Until that is done, we are on an aimless course that runs in circles and goes nowhere.

Honor God in all that you do. Let your own light shine so people can see God in what you do.

Let your light shine – whether you’re a candle in a corner or on a lighthouse on a hill.

Our Daily Bread – September 15, 2013