As Children of God, we should become light in darkness.

In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus says, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light to all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven”. 

What does that mean and how is it applied? What does it mean to “shine” faithfully? 

Light stands out. 

“But the path of the just is as a shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is darkness: they know not at what they stumble.” Proverbs 4:18-19 

When darkness swallows us up, navigation is impossible. You cannot see what’s going on, or what obstacles lie ahead.

When light appears, everything changes. It’s bright, warm, and comforting. You can see, and your pathway is clear. 

The world is full of spiritual darkness. Some turn a blind eye because they’ve been living in it so long they now love it, not realising the danger. Some people search for light but haven’t found it.

Christians must shine in the world’s darkness. We do this by living out a good testimony and bearing the fruit of the Spirit. 

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” Galatians 5:22-25 

Light shines out, not in. 

“O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.” Psalm 34:3  

A light’s job is to illuminate its surroundings. A lighthouse is not decoration. It draws attention to dangerous rocks that ships can’t see. 

When shining as Christians, it’s our job to illuminate the way to Christ and to bring attention to Him. We must not seek to glorify ourselves, but God and His salvation from “rocks”.

Light is a guide. 

“Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11

As Christians, we need to be a guide for our brethren, unconverted friends/family, and even the strangers we meet. We must constantly lead them back to Wonder that is God. We must, humbly and gracefully, turn peoples’ focus from their sin, trials, errors, and anxieties to Christ’s deliverance. 

There are always going to be struggling people, whether they haven’t been taught that Christ is the way, or know the Lord but are in a difficult season.

It’s our job to point them to the One who can heal wounds and forgive sins. We do this by praying for them, encouraging them, leading by example, and illuminating God’s wondrousness. 

Light needs fuel. 

“The Lord is my strength and song, and He is become my salvation: He is my God, and I will prepare him a habitation; my father’s God, and I will exalt him.” Exodus 15:2 

Our lives, like lights, need fuel to shine. We must fuel our light with the Holy Spirit, God’s Word, and our friendship with Him. We take time to “recharge” by studying Scripture, talking to God, and strengthening our relationship with Him. We must seek His help and bring everything to Him in prayer. 

Our fuel should be our love for Him. When we love God with all our hearts, then we want to shine for Him. 

How To Be a Light in Lockdown

Be respectful and kind when you do meet people.

Everyone still needs shopping, exercise, etc. so when you do meet people, be a good witness. Respect their space. Let someone go ahead of you in line. Allow someone else to buy that bag of flour. There are many ways to become a good difference.

Have a positive attitude.

“For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world…” Philippians 2:13-15 

Whoever you’re around- whether you’re with your family, on social media, shopping, or even by yourself- choose to focus on life’s blessings. 

This isn’t easy. When you’re facing trials, it’s natural to feel weak and want to complain, but we must remember that God’s in control and loves us. Cling to His grace and providence, Roses. 

Encourage whoever you’re in contact with.

“Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” Proverbs 16:24 

Whether it’s on social media or in person, if you see anyone struggling, do everything possible to encourage them. Pray with them. Quote scripture. Point out blessings. Share your testimony.

There are so many ways you can lift people’s spirits and show them how much they can be thankful for. 

In Conclusion

“ For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:16-17 

Being “the light” isn’t easy and can be hard work. However, you’ll always find blessings when you seek to glorify God and shine for Him. You may be mocked or discouraged when people close their eyes to the light, but we have a God who’s in control. 

It’s our job to shine the light. Only God knows whose eyes will be open to it.