In this article, let us consider what it can mean to be “the light of the earth” according to scripture
Quote by John Hagee:
“We are indeed the light of the world–but only if our switch is turned on.”
Light of the World: In Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT), Jesus said, “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” In Matthew 5:14-16 (NKJV), the passage reads, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Explanation: Light symbolizes goodness, truth, and guidance. As believers, we are called to shine the light of God’s love and truth in a world filled with darkness. Our actions, kindness, and integrity should point others toward God, illuminating the path to Him and bringing glory to Him through our deeds.
Light plays a crucial role in the sustenance of life on Earth. Here are seven things that light does for the Earth that we can use as a metaphor to what God expects from us as His “light on earth”
Photosynthesis: Light is essential for photosynthesis, the process by which plants produce food. In the same way, God expects us to be a source of spiritual nourishment for others, providing them with the sustenance they need to grow and thrive through Christ Jesus.
Regulates temperature: Light from the sun helps regulate the Earth’s temperature, keeping it within a range that is conducive to life. Similarly, we are called to be peacemakers, helping to regulate the emotional and mental temperature of our relationships and communities.
Provides energy: Light is a source of energy for many living organisms, including humans. In the same way, God expects us to be a source of Holy-Spirit and word-based energy, bringing divine power, love light and joy to those around us
Affects mood: Light has a profound effect on our mood and well-being. In the same way, we are called to be a source of encouragement and positivity, lifting others up and helping them to see the bright side of life, even in the face of challenges
Guides us: Light helps us find our way in the dark. Similarly, God expects us to be a guiding light for others, helping them navigate through the vicissitudes of life
Reveals truth: Light illuminates what is hidden in darkness, revealing the truth. In the same way, we are called to be truth-bearers, shining a light on injustice and corruption. We are to use the barometer of God’s word as the gold-standard in testing anything and everything. And if something does not line up to the truth of God’s word, we are to reject it. This is another way, we reveal God’s truth to the world
Brings beauty: Light can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, revealing the beauty that is all around us. Similarly, God expects us to be a source of beauty in the world, using our gifts and talents to create things of lasting value. God wants us to use our giftings to bring real value to the lives of people around us and also to the world.
In summary, light is a powerful force that sustains life, provides energy, affects mood, guides us, reveals truth, and brings beauty. As followers of Christ, we are called to be the light in the world, reflecting His love, mercy, goodness, power, and grace to those around us
In essence, being the “salt” and “light” of the world means living in a way that positively impacts others, preserving goodness, and illuminating the path to God through our actions, attitudes, and love for others.
The first step in becoming God’s light of the world is to accept Jesus Christ as Lord of your life. And it maybe that you have been a church goer but “you have been playing church”. Now is the time to sincerely re-dedicate your life back to Him.
Altar call: For anyone reading this article who is not saved and wants to be part of the family of God or you want to re-dedicate your life back to Jesus, please repeat this out loud. “Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned against you. Lord Jesus forgive me of my sins. I repent of my sins. Lord Jesus come into my life and be my Lord now and forever in Jesus Name“
Prayer points:
- God arise and empower me to illuminate Your mercy, love, and power to the world, in Jesus Name
- Father please help me that in words and actions, my life will reflect Christ to the world, in Jesus Name
- Lord give me the moral courage to stand for what is right in Your word, even if society does not, in Jesus Name
- Use me, O Lord to reveal Your truth, Your plans, and directions to the world, in Jesus Name
- Elohim, let my life bring beauty to my family, my church, my community and to the world, in Jesus Name
This is what the Holy-Spirit is stirring in my heart, that you are feeling hopeless because life has not been kind to you, but He says to tell you that as you Hold on to Him, hope is coming your way, help is coming your way, deliverance is coming your way now, in the name of Jesus.
God bless you
Feast of Light Word Ministry
Useful Resource (Part-1 of this article): SALT AND LIGHT OF THE EARTH (1) – Feast of light
