Week 2 | Day 2 | Bring On The Light

Command:

Let your light shine. Matthew 5:14-16

Read:

The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine. Proverbs 4:18 (MSG)

Reflect:

The women in my growth group have a season of pain and darkness in common: cancer. Surprisingly, the other thing we have in common is that we shine a bright light in the lives of those around us.

Our discussions are often centered on when we saw evidence of God’s presence during our cancer journeys. Even though the journeys were difficult and sometimes long, our stories light up the room. We know that the Lord walked with us in one of the darkest seasons of our lives. Sharing stories leaves all of us encouraged and in awe of Jesus’ faithfulness.

In a similar way, when I reflect on the ways the Lord has been present in my life and I praise God for his faithfulness, the Holy Spirit fills me with light. In the upside-down ways of God, when I praise him, I am blessed. God knows who he is. He doesn’t need my praise. We are directed in the Bible to worship the Lord, not for God’s benefit, but for ours. 

In church, we recently sang “Worthy of My Song” by Phil Wickham. The words rang so true for me: “I’m gonna sing till my heart starts changing. Oh I'm gonna worship till I mean every word. 'Cause the way I feel and the fear I'm facing doesn’t change who you are or what You deserve.”

Praising God for who he is and where he’s walked with us in the past brings light to our spirit even in the midst of difficult seasons. Proverbs 4:18 says the longer we (believers redeemed by Christ) live, the brighter we shine. The longer I live, the more time I have to worship Jesus and to share my faith stories with others. And as I do, the Holy Spirit fills me with his light that I might shine brighter in the world. 

React:

Spend time today thinking about the times in your life when you have experienced God’s presence. Thank him. Think about words you can use to describe God. Praise him.

Pray:

Father God, you have walked with me through many trials in my life and I know you will be faithful to walk with me in the future. I thank you for your faithfulness, strength, goodness and grace. You are powerful. There is no match for your wisdom and love. Help me to shine Jesus’ light that others may know you also.