Matthew 5:14-16, "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."

Think

"This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine ... Hide it under a bushel? NO! I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine..." Maybe you sang this song as a child. It's precious to watch kids sing it joyfully, wagging their index finger high up in the air. Although simple, the lyrics contain biblically-based, timeless truth.

YOU are the light of the world!

Jesus tasks us with a big responsibility in today's reading. We can easily convince ourselves that our relationship with Christ is only personal – and certainly, it STARTS there, with a decision and a commitment to follow Christ. But the follow-through of that initial commitment means that we are now Christ's representatives in a lost and dying world.

You are the LIGHT of the world!

When persecution or sorrow casts a shadow on our plans, we are not overwhelmed because God hasn't left us fumbling in the dark. He is with us, guiding and comforting us. In times of joy, we give glory to God instead of boasting and considering ourselves better than others. As noticeable as a candle in a dark room, our lives should be illuminating truth and emitting joy every day as we point others to Christ.

You are the light of the WORLD!

It's exciting to consider that God's plan for your life doesn't just involve you, but His desire to work through you to spread light to those still groping aimlessly through the darkness! His plans are great, and they include you!!

YOU are the LIGHT of the WORLD, so, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!

Act

Be intentional about looking for opportunities to share the gospel and how God's working in your life during this season.

Pray

Almighty Father, You are at work in my life! I want to be a light to those around me as I represent You. Let me walk forward in each step You put before me today, that my words and actions may bring glory to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.