Jesus spoke often about being the Light of the world, and many chose not to believe Him. Instead, they kept themselves hidden in darkness. Jesus also commanded His followers to let their light shine brightly for all the world to see. It’s important that we fully understand what Jesus meant when He used the words, “light” and “darkness.” so that we can apply His teaching to our lives today.
We can be sure that Jesus’ definition of light didn’t mean our standing around shining brightly. Of course not. Light is energy and energy involves action. Every time a believer prays, he is showing what it means to be the light of the world. Likewise, his light is showing when he loves, gives, serves and uses his spiritual gifts to advance the kingdom of God. Such acts as these push back the darkness and increases the lights in the world.
Rightly dividing the Word of God bears light. It gives understanding that helps keep God’s children from stumbling in the dark. The more we understand, the better we know God; and the better we see God, the more light we emit. Only one tiny spot of light of light is needed to dispel the darkness. If we immerse ourselves in the Word of God, the darkness in the spiritual realm would be greatly lessened.
Praise and worship is another way to let our light shine for the Father’s benefit. In the book of Revelation, we read about flashes of lightning around the throne of God. There is absolutely no darkness there. A day to look forward to, yes, but for now we can surrender ourselves completely to Him in worship. We can focus our hearts and minds on lifting up praises to Him—our minds void of any extraneous thoughts. Perhaps then, the people of Tulsa would see even a small flicker of light coming out of a church on Mingo. They might see it increasing in intensity until the Light was so bright, they would have to look away. Something so powerful it would take their breath away! Oh, what a day that would be!
Even a little light benefits the world as believers honor our Lord Jesus. And believers themselves are honored before the world.