Be Still and Know Daily Bible Devotion - October 29th - Matthew 5:14-16

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.” On the face of it, it seems really surprising that Jesus should be describing His followers as the light of the world. Surely that was His role? But Jesus was recognising that the only way in which people can see His light is if His followers reflect it into their communities. How then will people see this light shining from our lives? Jesus says that it happens as people see our good deeds. I have seen this happening time and again through Christians getting involved with the work of food banks, street pastoring, homeless projects and neighbourhood befriending schemes, to name but a few. It is important that our actions are complemented by talking about Jesus, but it is so often the actions that show our message has credibility. We all have very different opportunities to shine the light of Christ. Your unique network of relationships will enable you to bring the light to places which may not be reached by anyone else. So, however minor and insignificant your good deeds might seem to you, keep them up and thank God that His light will shine through you. Question How has God enabled you to share His light with others? Prayer Dear Lord, strengthen me each day so that I will live in such a way that others will see Your light. Amen