Why is it important to let our light shine before others?
1. To eliminate Darkness.
John 8:12 says, “Then Jesus spoke out again, “I am the light of the world. The one who follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
The phrase “light of the world” was common in Jewish culture throughout the Bible. The phrase was used to refer to Adam, many famous rabbis, Israel - the nation, and Jerusalem - the city. So, When Jesus said he was the "light of the world" everyone of that time new what He was saying...He was the light for whom society had been looking!!!
2. To eliminate Stumbling.
John 11:9 reads, "Jesus replied, “Are there not twelve hours in a day? If anyone walks around in the daytime, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world." Enough said! Focus on Jesus, live in His light, and you will not stumble!
3. To establish the Kingdom
Matthew 5:16 says, "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."
We are called to be visible and to live out our FAITH in the public arena. So we are to LIVE OUR FAITH OUT LOUD, TURN IT UP, ADN LET PEOPLE HEAR/SEE WHAT GOD HAS DONE IN YOUR LIFE.
Matt. 5:14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 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.”
Several years ago Jennifer and I visited her family in Colorado Springs, Colorado which is one of the most beautiful cities in our nation. As we were driving south on I-70 from Denver, I will never forget the first view of the night lights that illuminated The Springs. The many lights created a beautiful, breathe taking illumination. I remember noticing the distinct difference between the night's darkness and the city lights.
As a Christian, we are to be the "Light" of the world and the agent in whom God's light can shine. Honestly, there aught to be a distinct difference between us who are living in the "light" and those who remain in darkness. Our actions, speech, demeanor, and love aught to be different! However, many people and churches have chosen to distinguish their light by covering it up with different things. Here are a few things that will distinguish your light?
o Being Inwardly focused!
§ This is when we focus solely on taking care of the church people, place all of our emphasis on discipleship rather than outreach, and we choose to put our needs before the worlds.
o Being Prideful.
§ Being filled with arrogance is the thought that our lives are better than everyone else's.
§ Pride devalues others.
o Being comfortable.
§ Growing Content with where we are in life.
§ Maybe your church recently hit a record weekend attendance or giving weekend and you are feeling "good" about where you are right now. This can lead to a comfortable place, but is being comfortable winning souls. Has God called us to be comfortable? Is it truly letting our Light Shine Before Others? Let's get (un)comfortable with where we are!!!
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