Do you ever wonder if your light will burn bright enough to make a difference in this world? After all, the darkness of this world surrounds us. Sometimes it feels as if our candle will be snuffed out, and evil will prevail. However, we can choose to stay the course and shine brilliantly in our surroundings.
Five Steps to Burn Bright in This World
1. Remember Where the True Light Originated
For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:6 (NLT)
God brought light to our world at creation. However, wouldn’t you agree the best source of brightness He ever gave us was through his son Jesus?
Jesus is the light of this world. He demonstrated this over and over again through His love.
Jesus knew how to burn bright in His world.
Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” John 8:12 (NASB)
2. It Only Takes a Flicker
Maybe you want to shine for Jesus but feel as though it won’t be enough to make a difference. Please don’t underestimate how your light can change this world. It only takes a speck of light.
But don’t take my word for it. Please try the following:
You will need a lighter and candle to try this exercise. Better yet are those fake candles that you turn on. Find a room where you can have complete darkness. You might choose an interior bathroom or even a closet. But do be careful, don’t light your clothes on fire.
Go inside that space and turn off all the lights. Make sure you can’t see your hands in front of you. Sit there for a few moments in the darkness.
Be aware of the darkness – How does it feel? What can you see? Do you like it? Is it uncomfortable?
Now light a candle and notice the changes. One speck of light can change the entire room. Notice how you begin to see the darkness retreat as the glimmer of the candle starts to reveal the items in the room.
It is as if the darkness is backing up, and the light is moving forward. Notice it didn’t take too much effort to make a difference.
A small amount of light changes everything.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:5 (NIV)
3. Don’t Overthink It
Shine your light no matter how small or insignificant you think it might be. Remember, it only takes a flicker of light to change a dark room. Furthermore, you may brighten the life of someone else just by your smile.
4. Look for the Light
We must be willing to see the light to be the light. Keep your eyes on Jesus.
Then Jesus told them, “You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. Whoever walks in the dark does not know where they are going. John 12:35 (NIV)
5. Choose to Be the Light
You must choose to light the candle as we did in the dark room. Nevertheless, wanting to shine won’t be enough. You will have to make a choice and turn on the light. There are people all around us who are hurting and could use a little sparkle to shine into their world. Will you be that person?
Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. Isaiah 58:10 (NLT)
With Jesus as Our Example, We Can Light up the World
We can burn bright in this world. However, we must remember where it all originated and then step out with a willing heart, choosing to be a light and go. Don’t for a moment think a small little flicker won’t make a difference. It will!
Through our light, we will reflect God’s love for others, and we will be a light in this world. Let’s let Jesus shine through us and brighten someone’s world today.
