“In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that
everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” – Matthew 5:16 (NLT)
Think back to the darkest place you have ever been. When I was a kid, we played a game where we would hide in our basement with all the lights off, and my dad would try to find us. I saw him approaching me this time because his wristwatch’s faint glow shone clearly in the pitch dark. My heart began racing as I jumped up from my hiding spot to sprint to the stairs. Although the tiny light alerted me to his presence, it did not shine bright enough to let me see the cement chimney before my face made contact. Of course, all the lights came on quickly as everyone rushed to my side to ensure I was OK.
The obvious truth about dark and light is they are contrasts. When it comes to the darkness of the world around us, it’s easy to discuss how much darker the world is becoming. Still, if we possess the light of the truth of Jesus, the contrast should be even greater the darker the world becomes. The more we act, behave, and respond like the world, the dimmer our light shines.
The fantastic thing about this verse is that it references “your good deeds,” but the credit for those good deeds goes to the heavenly Father. Why? Usually, the one demonstrating the good deed receives praise. In this case, since God is the only source of good, any good that we do must come from Him. He is the One who deserves praise because He is the One who has transformed you to behave like His Son rather than the world.
“Still, if we possess the light of the truth of Jesus, the contrast should be even greater the darker the world becomes.”
Tip of the Day
Today, intentionally perform a small act of kindness or goodness, allowing the light of your good deeds to shine in the darkness around you. Remember, every positive action, no matter how small, has the potential to reflect God’s love and draw others closer to Him.
Prayer
Dear Lord, it can be challenging to continue doing good when so many are not. I cannot do this without You. When I don’t feel like doing good, please help me to remember that You made the ultimate sacrifice of your Son for them. Please help me remember that my good deeds are not in response to someone else’s behavior but to Your love and sacrifice for me. In Jesus’ precious name, amen.
Pause and Reflect
How can your good deeds showcase God’s transformative love rather than merely reacting to others’ behavior?
What steps can you take to stay connected to Jesus, the light source, ensuring your actions consistently shine brightly, even in challenging times?
Think about a recent situation when doing good was challenging. How might keeping in mind God’s ultimate sacrifice and focusing on His love change your response in similar situations in the future?
