Daily Reading: Matthew 5
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5.16)
Devotional Thought: Matthew 5, today’s chapter, is the first of three chapters that make up what has come to be known as “The Sermon on the Mount.” These three chapters are packed with a mountain of truth! We could spend the next year climbing that mountain!
Consider verse 16...
In the same way – I grew up in a house with 6 kids. There were always lights being left on. It used to drive my dad nuts! “Do you want to pay the electric bill?” For us it was a matter of saving a few pennies. But for people in Jesus’ day, lamp oil was a precious commodity. It was gained by hard work. You lit a lamp very intentionally.
Let your light shine before others – Not only is it wasteful to burn a light in an unoccupied room, it is also wasteful to fail to burn a light where one is needed! People around you need the light of the kingdom to navigate life’s journey.
That they may see your good works – People have plenty of dark things to draw their attention. All they need to do is turn on the TV, and they will get their fill of despair, immorality, cynicism, hate, and death. Worse yet, their lives may be one episode after another of darkness. The light shining from your life needs to bring hope, goodness, sincerity, love and life.
And praise your Father in heaven – Shining our light through good deeds is not about earning the accolades of those around us: “My isn’t she a wonderful person…” No, it is about giving God the glory.
Today, go out and let your light shine!
Prayer: Lord, you are the light of life. Thank you for shining your light into my life! Help me, Jesus, to let my light shine so that others may find hope and peace and life in you. Amen.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 85:1-7
1 LORD, you were favorable to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob.
2 You forgave the iniquity of your people; you covered all their sin. Selah
3 You withdrew all your wrath; you turned from your hot anger.
4 Restore us again, O God of our salvation, and put away your indignation toward us!
5 Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger to all generations?
6 Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?
7 Show us your steadfast love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation.
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