“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matt. 5:16
Today’s Christian Daily Devotional
I read this verse and I instantly see this as an opportunity to get away with “bragging” as a Believer. We could be “flashy” and let our good works and deeds shine (all in the name of making Jesus look good, of course!). But ask yourself WHY you are doing those good deeds. Remember, God looks on the heart. Even though being kind and thoughtful is a wonderful quality to have, if you are seeking the approval of others, your really just “bragging” in a “Christian PC kind of way”.
This is something every human being has a struggle with. We all have our pride that wants to take FULL credit. To keep this in check, I have been trying a new exercise for myself. When God prompts me to do something nice, I try and do it “undercover”. I picture the light shining in a subtle glow, and after I have gone (and can get no credit) the light of God’s work just beams behind me. Your good deeds have nothing to do with you. They have everything to do with showing the world God’s nature through your life. Does that make sense?
“Dear Heavenly Father,
I want to do good things, but I need to do them for the right reason. I want YOUR light to shine, not mine. Can you help me keep my ego in check? I struggle with trying to look good in front of others, and I know that is a self-centered way of looking at life. I want a God-centered way of looking at things and doing things. Show me your ways, Lord. They are higher than my ways, so expand my mind to grasp what I need to do and show me the WAY you want me to do it.
In Jesus’ precious name, all for your light to shine, Amen.”