LIGHT SHINE

Today, I want to go over two strategies that Jesus lays out for believers when witnessing through our actions. He lays out these strategies early in His ministry; both are designed to put our actions above our words first.

Matthew 5:13-16 “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 “Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all [who are] in the house. 16 “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Jesus identifies the very first mission field as their own home. This could be a spouse, a child, parents, or any other family member. When a believer is in a home, they are the light into the world first shining in that home. This means being proactive in talking about Christ and living for Christ; this will allow those who are not saved to see Christ through your actions and words. The old saying of “Don’t talk politics and religion at the family get together” is a lie from hell. Politics is an offshoot of religion, which, if done correctly, is Christ. We need to be sharing the gospel whenever we have the opportunity.

Now, the second strategy is with others in our area of influence, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and gloify your Father in heaven.” We need to actively be living in such a manner that we are identified as “Christians” before we even open our mouths to share the gospel. This does not mean to be a “ Bible thumper” but rather the worker who is honest, hardworking, and dependable, whose work is recognized by your actions. When someone tells you that they are struggling, you tell them you will be praying for them. Then later, go check on the person. Let your words be few and your actions be louder. Your “yes” must be a “yes” and your “no” be a “no.” Unfortunately, for many in the Christian world, especially the calvanist, people have placed God in a box. Fortunately, He is not something that can be defined inside a box, but He is the “I AM.” This means His approach to pull people to Him with the cross and salvation is unique and personal to each and every sinner. This body of Christ is the necessary tool that He has chosen for such a task. We need to be sharing the gospel, and it starts at home, then moves to those in our area of influence.

Now, a moment of caution, salt must be used for what it was designed to be used for, or salt will lose its “flavor.” I have personally seen “Christians” (only the Lord knows) who have lost their “flavor” and now live in a manner or “witness” in a manner that is not glorifying the King of Kings. They examine ways to be persecuted and say it is for their humility and devotion to God. These so-called religious zealots are only fooling themselves, for the Lord weighs the hearts and minds. Be careful that you do what God has called you to do.

Finally, I will end it on this: it is hardest for us to witness to our family and coworkers, this is because of several fears that are not worth mentioning. We need to be sharing the gospel no matter what. Ask God for the courage and the ability to share. He will provide. He will be right there with you.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL