“…In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your father in heaven.” – Matt 5:16 (NIV)
As is common at the start of every year, resolutions are made, commitments are entered and people try to begin again, what they tried and failed to do the year before, and the year before that.
New year resolutions feel hard because when we make them, we box our minds into thinking and believing that this is the only time to achieve them, and if we fail, we feel helpless, as though we have no recourse but to wait for a new time or a new year, when in fact, we can just begin again, start afresh the very next day.
Why is this important?
When a new year rolls around like this, and we make resolutions to improve several aspects of our lives, it is important to realise that we are also committing to shine our light. So, when we find ourselves falling behind on our resolutions or failing in the commitments we have made, rather than feel sad or angry or give up, remember that the time past or spent, does not matter, what matters is seizing the opportunity the next time it presents itself, so get back up!
When given the opportunity to do something good, something positive, we must take it. Don’t wait for a time or date, just do it. Matt 5:16 encourages us to ensure our good deeds shine our light so that others may glorify God. Every good deed is an opportunity to shine your light, an opportunity to bring others to glorify God. Your fellowship with God and men, your work, your relationships, your finances, your health, every area of your life is an opportunity for good deeds that cause your light to shine and inspire the admiration and honour of God by others; therefore, it is no longer just your business, but also God’s business. And if you fall behind on God’s business, do you wallow in defeat or self-pity, or do you take the first chance you get to go at it again?
On the other hand, when you find yourself excelling in the commitments you have made, smashing all the goals you set, ticking off each resolution, remember, even then, that is it not about you; these met goals and fulfilled commitments, should firstly shine your light, and then inspire others to glorify God. If your deeds seem good, but they do not shine your light, check them again (Prov. 14:12). Keep God front and centre of every goal set and every achievement attained.
It is still very early in the year and even if you have dropped the ball on a few resolutions, that should not matter, because everyday is a new opportunity to begin afresh. Just as the morning light pierces the darkness of night, every single day, so too should your light shine every new day. And you do not walk alone. If God calls you to shine your light, best believe that He equips you and strengthens you to do it (Phil 4:13). He teaches you and holds your hand through the journey. He walks with you; you do not walk alone. But first, you must start walking.
So this year, reframe your goals as instruments to shine your light for the glory of God and rely on Him help you accomplish them.
Start today. Shine your light.
Thank you for being here. I trust this message nurtured your spirit and brought clarity to your journey. Share your thoughts and join us again for the next episode!
– Written by Sis. Jennifer Aduro