02/06/2024
Jean Morrison
You might have heard the adage, “Get your shine on.” The Urban Dictionary refers to this as someone who unexpectedly exceeds the expectations of one’s peers in a public setting. Following this definition, today’s abundance of social media influencers might fit this bill. These represent individuals across different social platforms that shine in the eyes of the world depending on whether their posts go viral or on the number of likes and followers they receive.
Biblically, however, “get your shine on” is even more critical for those who love and follow Jesus. In John 8:12, Jesus called Himself the light of the world, and Matthew 5:14-16 reminds us that we, as lights in the world, must also shine brightly. Jesus challenged His followers to never hide or dim their light so God gets the glory.
When you look back over your life, would you say that you are consistently shining bright for Jesus, or does your light flicker on or off depending upon who you are with, the places you visit, or varying circumstances? For example, does your light shine bright when you go to church on Sunday, only to dim a little as soon as you get to work on Monday?
Remember, as Christ’s followers, we are to be Difference Makers to people inside and outside our inner circle. Let’s face it: this is not an easy task for anyone, but it is required to represent Jesus daily.
Here are three essential things you should keep in mind about how to shine bright for Jesus:
1. Your shine has intellectual and moral implications. Your ability to be a Difference Maker depends on how you think and your decisions.
2. Your shine has great influence. You don’t have to be on social media to make a difference in God’s Kingdom. How you treat others, serve others, and even go about your work can significantly change someone’s life. Every day, God gives us divine appointments where we can represent the heart, hands, and feet of Jesus.
3. Your shine is to bring God Glory. That means your mission here on earth is to lift up Jesus and not to promote yourself.
So, are you ready to become more of a Difference Maker? Here are a few ways to shine more brightly for Jesus starting today!
1. Show compassion to others. (Matthew 9:35-36)
2. Practice humility when interacting with others. (Philippians 2:1-11)
3. Be generous with your time, talent, and treasures. (Romans 12:13)
4. Forgive others. (Ephesians 4:32)
Remember, every time you let your light shine, people get to see the Jesus living in you. Now, isn’t that our ultimate purpose?
