Walking as Lights of the World

“'(14) You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. (15) 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. (16) 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

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While Jesus was in the world, He was the light of the world ( John 8:12, 9:5 ). Those who put their faith in Him become children of the light also ( Matt. 5:14-16; John 12:36; Eph. 5:8 ). David Guzik, the pastor of Calvary Chapel Santa Barbara, explains that being the light of the world is not only a compliment that Jesus gives His followers but also a great responsibility. As lights, it is our responsibility to intentionally live a life of good works that are visible to those around us ( Matt. 5:16).

How do we do this? Paul states that as children of the light, believers should walk in the light ( Eph. 5:8-9 ). This means to separate ourselves from performing the "works of darkness" and to expose them ( Rom. 13:12-14; Eph. 5:11 ). We must put to death sexual immorality, lust, greed, jealousy, pride, idolatry, anger, gossip, and every other sin that doesn't befit living a life pleasing to Jesus

( Colossians 3:5-10 ).

"Light is needed because the world is in darkness, and if our Christianity imitates the darkness, we have nothing to show the world. To be effective we must seek and display the Christian disctinctive. We can never affect the world for Jesus by becoming like the world." ( David Guzik )

Instead, we need to imitate Jesus in how He lived His life ( Col. 3:10 ). Rather than hating those who hate us, we need to love everyone around us ( Luke 6:27-36; Col. 3:14; 1 John 4;8 ). Instead of holding grudges, we need to put bitterness aside and learn to forgive those who've wronged us ( Matt. 6:14-15, 18:21-22; Col. 3:13 ). Seek to reflect the One who saved you and called you for a purpose ( Eph. 2:10 ). Live your life being a bright and shining light for Him in this world.

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God, please help me to be a light for you in this world. Help me to separate myself from sin and to repent of the works of darkness. Please help me to produce love and good works that are visible to those around me and one that brings You glory. Be glorified through me and let Yourself and Your nature be made known to others through me.

In Jesus' Name, I pray, amen.