Devotional #5 - RISE AND SHINE

IL.message series promo

DAY #5 RISE AND SHINE

 

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, ESV

 

It’s time to rise and shine!  First, let’s look at good works. Realize this: God doesn’t need your good works, but the world does. God doesn’t need man to do good works as if to add something to him or to help him. He is good enough. He’s entirely sufficient (he has no needs). He is omniscient (all knowing), omnipotent (all powerful), infinite (self-existing without origin), and omnipresent (everywhere, all wise, not needing additional knowledge). He is faithful, He is good, He is just, He is merciful, He is gracious, He is loving, He is completely holy, He is glorious, He is God. All this tosay, he doesn’t need our good works, but our neighbors do! 

 

God is calling you to shine in such a time as this. Jesus said, “Let your good deeds shine”. He didn’t say good news, but good deeds. Why? Because the world judges the church, not for what we say, but by what we do. In a time of religious scandals, political divisions, and national crises, the church must rise and shine. Take some time to consider how you can help a non-believer. Remember, light shines brightest in the dark. Don’t try to shine your good deeds before other Christians. They’ve got enough light. You are called to shine your light not among those at church but in your community.  You don’t have toot your own horn, but you do want a watching world to see how Christians should care and help others. In doing so we are being a witness and increasing the chances that they will place their faith in Christ. Sometimes it starts with a good work, before they will be ready for the good news. Commit today to do a good act in our community. Donate blood, send a meal or a gift card, check in on a neighbor, send someone an encouraging message. There are endless ways to shine your light. Just be sure to do it not just on a Sunday or around other Christians, but on Monday-Saturday, around non-Christians.  It’s time to rise and shine!