How can you ensure your light is not hidden under a basket? Living as Visible Light “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.” — Matthew 5:14 • Jesus declares this as an objective fact, not a suggestion. If He has made you light, visibility is your calling. • Light by nature dispels darkness; hiding contradicts its God-given purpose. Cultivate a Pure, Bright Flame • Keep short accounts with God (1 John 1:5-7) so sin’s soot does not dim your witness. • Renew your mind daily with Scripture (Psalm 119:105) to keep the bulb clear and the wattage high. • Walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), allowing His fruit to beam through attitudes and actions. Position Your Light Strategically “No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket. Instead, they put it on a lampstand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” — Matthew 5:15 • Ask where God has placed your lampstand—home, workplace, community, church. Shine right there first. • Influence expands naturally when faithfulness at home precedes public platforms (Luke 8:16-17). • Do not wait for perfect conditions. Night is when light is most needed. Stay Fueled by Communion with Christ • Abide in the True Light (John 8:12); intimacy with Him keeps the wick trimmed and oil fresh. • Worship, fellowship, and the Lord’s Table continually refill the reservoir (Acts 2:42-47). • Prayer keeps the connection open, allowing His radiance to flow through you unhindered. Let Your Works Point to the Father “In the same way, let your light shine before men that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16 • Good deeds are not self-promotion but God-exaltation. • Serve in tangible, sacrificial ways—meeting needs, speaking truth, showing mercy (Ephesians 2:10). • When praise comes, deflect it upward, turning conversations toward the gospel. Guard Against Common Basket-Coverings • Fear of man (Proverbs 29:25) — replace with bold reliance on God’s approval. • Compromise with culture (Romans 12:2) — stand distinct in holiness. • Busyness and distraction (Luke 10:40-42) — prioritize Kingdom pursuits. • Cynicism or discouragement (Philippians 2:14-16) — shine with joyful hope. Practical Steps for Today • Share a Scripture or testimony on social media instead of merely scrolling. • Offer to pray when a coworker voices a struggle. • Volunteer for a need in your local church or community outreach. • Display integrity in business dealings, letting honesty be a spotlight. • Open your home for hospitality; warmth and conversation illuminate Christ’s love. Keep the basket off, the flame fed, and the lamp on its stand—so the world around you sees Christ clearly and glorifies the Father who sent the Light. |
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