Matthew 5:16, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

Think

Light up your world!

In yesterday's devotional, God reminded us to be like salt. Today, he challenges us to shine his light. We live in a dark world, obviously caught in a downward spiral, and our country is moving farther and farther away from God's foundations. Evidence of this downward motion called "gradualism" can be seen in how far media of all kinds has taken us. For example, in 1939, Gone with the Wind hit the silver screen, causing a major public outcry over Rhett Butler's famous line... "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a _____!" Eighty years ago, this single cuss word absolutely rocked America.

Since then, our societal standards have plummeted. Gradually, we keep moving away from the light of God's best for our lives. Today, far worse words are constantly lobbed at us on primetime television and in movies and song lyrics. Because of this, God calls us to bring light into our world.

Just one candle – each one of us – can shatter the darkness and bring God's everlasting light into focus. Today, resolve in your heart to shine Christ's light everywhere you go as a beacon of hope to those still living in darkness.

Act

To graphically visualize the impact of light within darkness, turn off all the lights wherever you are, and think about Jesus' words in today's verse. Then, turn on your phone and see how one simple light draws your attention and illuminates the darkness. Now, commit to shining your light within the darkness of our world and glorify your Father in heaven!

Pray

God, Thank You for today's reminder and challenge to make a difference in the world. Help me be a light dispelling the darkness that draws the world's attention to you! In Jesus' name, Amen.