Don’t Hide Your Light
Why Matthew 5:16 still challenges me today
Dear friends,
We study one verse a week
I hope you will follow along in my group called Growing through God’s Word, on Facebook. That’s where the discussion will take place. Please make sure you answer all three questions in order to join.
You will find this week’s verse at the end of this post. And if you wish to subscribe sign in below.
What have I learned from the scripture this week?
Matthew 5:16
S- Say and write the scripture (use different versions)
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (NIV)
Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. (MSG)
“So don’t hide your light! Let it shine brightly before others, so that your commendable works will shine as light upon them, and then they will give their praise to your Father in heaven.” (TPT)
I always like to look at the words that capture my attention.
Light shine - light stand, shine brightly
See good deeds - opening up to others, commendable works
Glorify God - prompt people to open up with God, praise to your Father
I - Interpretation (use footnotes, commentaries and references)
This is a pivotal point in The Sermon on the Mount. It follows the metaphors of being the Light of the world and Salt of the earth. In the NIV, it says “in the same way” which is referring back to light of the world and salt of the earth.
The light reflects the character of Jesus. It defines a purpose for the followers of Jesus. Light in Aramaic is Noohra which is often used as a metaphor for teachings that bring enlightenment into the hearts of people.
Don’t hide your faith. If we have the Light of Jesus in us, we are to reflect that back for others to see. That is usually done in our works. Doing good deeds showing charity, compassion and justice.
It reminded me of last week’s Micah 6:8 article where we are encouraged to be this - “To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (NIV)
Today we are encouraged to do this -
“let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. NIV)
By asking God, we can find our true purpose in life.
We need to be the LIGHT and to do - to shine the LIGHT in our daily lives.
M - Make a list of your thoughts or draw a picture
So now the question is - How do we show others Christ’s light?
Looking back through the past 25 years (from the time I said “yes” to Jesus), I see I have worked to shine His light.
I joined to two cross Canada Christian writers groups which gave me fellowship with others and I learned to write so I could shine for others.
I took 5 short mission trips to Poland where we taught English but also showed who we are as believers. We taught Bible studies. I worked with the children and taught them to see Jesus.
I taught Sunday School in my church (and I am still teaching that).
I have published over ten books (three children’s) to teach the ways of Jesus.
I have written on my blog and on Substack to show others who Jesus is.
Now - I am not sure what I am doing. But I keep going. Writing. Occasionally painting.
I looked up the word shine. Used as a verb is means to glow or polish.
What type of polish do we need to shine for Jesus?
I would say we need:
to study what God is saying to us by studying the Bible
to pray and listen to what He is saying to us
to ask God questions and listen for answers
to fellowship with other believers online and in person
P - Pray and Listen (Record what you hear, ask questions)
Sometimes this is a very personal spot in this study.
This week was very personal as I have not been feeling well. My energy level isn’t what I like it to be. I had quite the chat with God about this. I felt confused. Conflicted. Worried.
Here is my conversation with God
God: Be at peace. I will show you the way.
Me: I had a beautiful 30 minute meditation time with God. I felt calmer. I was ready to say, “This is the day that the LORD has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it.”
Don’t hide your faith. If we have the Light of Jesus in us, we are to reflect that back for others to see.
I have written about God’s light before.
And here is a Rocked Up a Bit “This Little Light of Mine.” Click on 8 minutes and 15 seconds to hear the song.
E - Exit with a prayer
Heavenly Father, enlighten us with Your words and Spirit. Reveal inspirations in our lives. Help us shine Your Light brightly before others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Next Monday - We Start Week 20 Bible Study
Scripture of the week
Matthew 6:33
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (NIV)
Check Simple Bible Study out on Facebook - Growing through God’s Word. Join us.
My Book of the week is Growing through God’s Word - a book of devotionals and helping to shine the Light of Jesus.
Do you seek a daily spiritual rhythm in your life?
Janis believes in the impact of a daily rhythm to seek God. In this devotional, Janis shares her experiences in studying God’s Word daily. She encourages readers to grow closer to God through the practices of journaling and prayer.
Do you seek simplicity with relatability?
Then, this book is your perfect companion. Well-written and clear, it calls to the soul. It offers a genuine exploration of the author’s love for God. The bite-sized chapters, engaging style, and quirky, fun illustrations make it easy for anyone to understand and enjoy.
Do you enjoy captivating stories?
Enjoy Janis’ real-life stories. Readers appreciate her sharing her vulnerability and letting them into her story. Her simple devotionals refresh the soul as she encourages you to listen to God, embrace stillness, and follow the Holy Spirit.
Join Janis Cox on a journey of spiritual growth.
Snapshot:
Daily Growth Journey: Join Janis on your own transformative journey.
Practical Spiritual Practices: Embrace journaling and prayer to grow closer to God.
Relatable Storytelling: Enjoy storytelling as Janis shares her experiences and vulnerability.
Accessible Spiritual Guide: With bite-sized chapters, engaging style, fun illustrations, and a place to journal, use this book as a guide on your own spiritual journey.
Janis Cox’s genuine love for God shines through, making Growing through God’s Word a source of inspiration and encouragement.
Buy Growing through God’s Word - an inspirational devotional.