SWORD OF THE SPIRIT                                                                                               1163

“Shining Lights”

Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world – Philippians 2:14-15

Have you ever been around people that were a constant downer? They constantly complain and grumble. They are always contrary to what is being said seeking to provoke disputes. For them, the glass is always half empty and the skies cloudy. Such people repel others.

We, as born-again Christians are not to be like that. The light of Jesus in us should attract people to Him – to seek to know Him.

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. – John 8:12 – Daniel 12:3

If we are always grumbling and complaining we dim if not completely hide the light of Christ.

Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true) – Ephesians 5:7-9

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 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 5:14-16

The light of Christ must shine through us in our homes, communities, and workplaces. His light must shine through our exercise of civic duties – how we vote and in our service in the community and to every stranger we meet.

Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ – Matthew 25:34-36

There is much to complain and grumble about in our crooked, perverse, and twisted world society today. But the greater the darkness that surrounds us the greater the need for the light of Christ to shine through us to comfort and guide the lost and fearful into a place of hope and trust in the Truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18