Lighten Up

 

Hammers, nails, screwdrivers – yesterday found us at some of our children’s homes playing ‘fix it’!  It’s always nice to help out and spend time brightening up their places.  As we drove home, I thought about how each of their homes have brightened up – whether it is new paint, new lights, or new children, each of their homes have something added to them to brighten things up.  I thought maybe it was time for me to do a little brightening up of my own.  Maybe not to our home, but to me!  Could it be time for a new hairstyle?  New clothes?  New shoes?  How my mind wandered.

I then delved a bit deeper into my thinking.  Maybe it isn’t the appearance that needs to be brightened up.  Maybe it’s time for me to find a way for me to shine outward to others – to let my light shine for God a bit brighter!   The notion of shining our light for God is not new.  Our verse for today speaks emphatically about letting our light shine for others, that we may share the goodness of God with those around us.  It reminds me of a favorite children song, “This Little Light of Mine”!  I was recently singing this to my granddaughter, who especially liked the part about not hiding our light ‘under the bushel’.

Shining our light to others is an important part of being a Christian.  Our ability to show others how wonderful God works in our lives and how He can impact their lives is our responsibility.  As our simple faith in God grows, our light shines brighter – helping those around us to see the gift of faith.  So the question becomes, how can I shine my light brighter for God?

·         Bible Study:  In order for me to share my light brighter, I need to ensure I have the fuel to shine bright.  Diving into God’s word is a perfect place to start.  Whether it is a formal Bible study or picking a book or chapter to delve into, gaining the knowledge to share with others is a great start.

·         Prayer:  Asking God how I can shine brighter will bring guidance from the best counselor there is, God!  Go to Him and ask how you can use your gifts and talents to shine to others.

·         Servanthood:  Being able to share God-given talents with others is a wonderful way to show others the goodness of God.  Helping out at church, helping a neighbor in need, ensuring you stop by to see the elderly – all ways to bring the light to those who need it.

·         Notes of Encouragement:  Maybe it is writing a note to someone who needs to see words of encouragement.  Helping those around us to get through a tough time may start by seeding words that Jesus loves them and will take care of them, no matter the circumstance.

Whatever way you choose, step out in simple faith, and know that shining your light for others will make your light brighter.  Let “This Little Light of Mine” shine for the world to see.

Heavenly Father, help me to shine my light for all to see!  Amen