Shining Lights
Guest post by Chad Ramsey.
Whether you like it or not, you influence others by your actions. So, if you are an individual who claims to follow Christ, you must be very careful to “practice what you preach.”
Some have complained about this and have tried to argue that they are not “role models.” But Jesus tells us our lives affect others. As a matter of fact, He likened our influence to the way light affects darkness. Jesus said:
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).
From this passage, we learn at least three great facts.
Man has an influence.
Just as a city situated on the top of a hill can be seen from miles around, so the influence of the Christian can also be seen.
Thus, the individual who thinks he has no influence only deceives himself. Others see the way that we live and learn from our actions.
Man must not hide his influence.
As Jesus correctly said, one does not light a lamp and then immediately cover it. Instead, when a lamp is lit, it is placed on a stand so that its light can brighten the room.
Our influence should do no less. Rather than blending in with the crowd, the follower of Christ should stand out. Remember, Jesus expects us to be a “peculiar” people (Titus 2:14).
Man must use his influence for good.
Jesus insisted that our lights should shine in a way that brings glory to God. Those around us should be encouraged to follow God by the things we say and do.
Let us be shining lights that serve to brighten our dark world!
Chad Ramsey preaches for the Gloster Street Church of Christ in Tupelo, Mississippi. You can access their Bible classes and Chad’s sermons on Gloster Street’s YouTube page.
Chad was - and still is - “my preacher” from when I spent my high school and early college years at Gloster Street. I’m thankful to be able to share some of his writings with you!