Let Your Light Shine

In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven.
(Matthew 5:16, NIV)

      As you read this scripture reflect on the picture above which is a lit candle.  Most of the time candles are used in times of darkness and when illumination is needed. Candles are also used more often than not in times of "unexpectancy", for example the lights go out unexpectantly. Of course there are other special occasions in which they are used.  The scripture encourages us to "Let your light shine before men.”  Does this mean that my candle must be lit when I am going through a dark time in my own life? When things are not going as I planned? When I need to be ministered to but God has ordained for me to minister to others.  The answer is “yes” and the flame that ignites your candle is God's Holy Spirit.

     
God’s light will shine brightly within you when you humble yourself before the Lord and realize that all the good you do for others when you are going through yourself is bringing praise to your Father in Heaven.  It is not in your power that your light shines but in the one you serve.  As you bring light into the lives of others, God will illuminate the light within you more.