As a child, the lyrics “This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine” gave me a goal. Singers of the song are familiar with committing to shining “all in their home, on their jobs,” or in any other place they feel their shine matters.

The song’s positive vibe tells us we can contribute to the lives around us in little or life-changing ways. However, societal ills — like racism, sexism, classism, or self-doubt — say my light or your light is too small or nonexistent.

But as Jesus spoke to a crowd, He said, ““I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12 ESV). As we follow Him, the Light of the world frees us from darkness. He gives us His life-giving light and His sacred permission to shine. But it’s not a gift to keep to ourselves.

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16 ESV).

Our good works may prompt earthly applause. But all the glory should point to the Father in heaven. Otherwise, it’s not a pretty sight if I lose sight of the Light of the World, or become blinded by someone else’s glow. If I wrestle with pride or a desire for approval, “impressing people” seeps into my motivation. And yet, when I cling to the grace that covers me, “pointing to God” becomes my inspiration.

You may have a sense of your earthly goals and your heavenly glow. But as we think about our S H I N E, here are some of things for us to consider.

See ourselves as God’s vessel and not as the world’s victim. Life doesn’t always turn out the way we want or the way it should. But God gives us grace and truth in Christ to find the way to experience Him the most. (see John 14:6 and Ephesians 2:10)

Humility highlights our sheen. Whether our positive impact is felt by the masses or felt by one person, it’s an honor to make a difference. (see Philippians 2:3-4 and James 3:12-14)

Invest in what’s needed to show up in the ways we need to. Professional development, prayer, and rest can turn up the light as we serve or turn down the stress so we can replenish. (see 1 Timothy 4:6-8 and Psalm 23:1-3)

Never let someone else’s glow cause us to question the value of our own. Comparison dulls our shine. Collaborating with others or celebrating them brightens it. (see Galatians 6:4 and Hebrews 10:23-25)

Embrace God’s grace. It’s in the smallest glimmer of our contributions and empowers the biggest moment of our dreams. (see 2 Corinthians 4:15 and 2 Corinthians 12:9)

Whether our voltage shows our victories or we feel unworthy to shine, the Light of the World keeps calling. There is a way He wants to shine through our daily lives and in our greatest dilemmas.

It happens as we surrender our wants to meet someone else’s need. He shows up as we seek Him for fruitfulness in our service and creativity in our craft. We can depend on His perfect strength in our weakness. And through a willing vessel, His Light goes out into the world giving life to someone else too.

Pray: Father, Thank you for Your grace. It cancels out the noise of comparison, self-doubt and criticism that says my light is too small or nonexistent. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, the Light of the World. He frees me from darkness and grants me sacred permission to shine with His life-giving light. Help me to hear Your call clearly and shine in the ways that bring You glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Joy to the Soul: Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12 ESV).