Let Your Light So Shine

People enjoy being around others who enjoy life. I know I do! It is amazing to me, how I can be in a grumpy mood and run across someone that is all bouncy and fun and it completely changes my attitude. Being around someone all of the time that is bitter, or grumpy or depressed, is not what I call having a good time. I want to spend my time with someone that celebrates life and is full of passion! So…  Why can’t I be that person that loves life?

If we enjoy being around people like those afore mentioned, we should BE those same people. Isn’t, or shouldn’t our goal be, to spread God’s word? Shouldn’t we be most concerned with those in life that are struggling? Don’t we want others to join us in our true worship to God? If we answer yes to all of these ideas, shouldn’t we BE that person, that we love to be around?

John Wesley stated, “When you set yourself on fire, people love to come and watch you burn.”

Jesus tells us in Mat 5:16  “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

There are a few things that we can do, or change in our attitude that will help us become (become stronger) that lively, good natured, fun loving, exciting person that we so love being around.

First of all, we should expect the best from everyone. If we can exert the “air” that we know everyone around us, can and is, being the best that they can be, they will expect the best from themselves!  Everyone will feel better about themselves, because they know, without a shadow of a doubt, that regardless of their circumstance and regardless of their shortcomings (for we all have them) they are being the best person that they can. Certainly there is a time and place to show disappointment, but it should be used sparingly and only for exhortation; much like the apostle Paul used it (Rom. 11).

Secondly, we should give others hope. Hope can be displayed in many ways. We can let others know about the hope that we have. When something doesn’t go our way, we can talk about the better way and discuss the opportunities that where given to us in our efforts. We can also present an attitude of hope. Instead of slumping in our chair or dropping our head in defeat, we can keep our demeanor one of happiness and encouragement. Then there is the follow through. If we don’t put our demeanor and words of hope into a positive action of hope, we don’t accomplish anything. Our words and attitude will be hollow.

Lastly, with expecting the best of everyone and giving others hope, we should share ourselves. We can give others what small amount of wisdom we have gained through our struggles. We can share God’s word, and share our time with others. Time is a valuable thing to all of us. I personally am always touched when someone takes the time out of their busy life, to spend it with me in exhortation and love. Also, being able to empathize with others and learning to relate to what is important to others is invaluable.

It all comes down to our attitude. If we want to spread the Good News, and encourage others to come to Christ, we need to let our light shine and let it shine in a way that would be most productive.

May your life be filled with love and happiness and hope!

Max Gaskins