Blocking God's Light

Reflecting God’s Light

Jesus called His followers to be “lights in the world” (Matthew 5:14). However, we do not generate our own light; we reflect the light of Christ.

Jesus is the true light of the world who gives light to everyone (John 1:1-9). God’s Word enlightens (fills with spiritual light) us (Ephesians 1:17-19) and shows us the truth (2 Corinthians 4:4-6). In fact, the Bible describes our conversion as being enlightened (Hebrews 10:32).

As Christians, we are being transformed into the image of Jesus (2 Corinthians 3:12-18). We shine because His life is visible in ours (2 Corinthians 4:11).

We see this in the early apostles. They spoke with boldness because they had been with Jesus and reflected His character (Acts 4:13).

The closer we get to Jesus, the more brightly we reflect His glory. Conversely, the farther we drift, the dimmer our reflection becomes.

Our light shines to guide others (Matthew 5:16; 1 John 1:5-7; 1 Peter 2:11-12). Therefore, we must walk and love as children of light (Ephesians 5:6-20; 1 John 2:8-11). Even our critics should be silenced by lives that honor God (Titus 2:7-8).

God’s Light in a Dark World

God’s Word shines into the world, and Christians must reflect that light in dark places. While the Word is always shining, the way we live our lives matters. Many people will not read the Bible themselves, but they will observe how we live it.

The world is full of lost souls who need the gospel (good news of Christ). We have the Word to light up their hearts just as it did ours.

We also have many tools, like books and guides, to help us share our faith. But the best tool for evangelism (sharing the gospel) is a Christian who is passionate about leading others to Jesus.

Blocking God’s Light

We can understand how we reflect God’s light by looking at the solar system. God is the sun—the source of light. We are the moon—reflecting that light to the earth. The moon’s light is not as bright, and it is merely reflected, but it is effective for its purpose.

The Solar Eclipse: Putting Ourselves First

In a solar eclipse, the moon passes directly between the sun and the earth. Even though the moon is tiny compared to the sun, it blocks the sun’s rays and darkens the day. The sun is still shining, but its light cannot reach the earth.

Sometimes Christians bring attention to themselves instead of directing praise to God. Jesus said that the world should see our good works and glorify our Father (Matthew 5).

Yet, it is easy to seek attention for worldly things like wealth, talent, appearance, or success. When we focus on self-promotion, we get in the way. Instead of reflecting God’s glory, we block His light from reaching the people around us.

The Lunar Eclipse: Let the World Get in the Way

In a lunar eclipse, the earth moves between the sun and the moon. The earth blocks the sun’s rays, completely darkening the moon.

Similarly, when we let the world come between us and God, our light fades and can eventually go out. We can become so obsessed with money, sports, work, or entertainment that we have no time to study God’s Word or shine it.

Jesus warned that the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches can choke out the Word (Mark 4:19). In contrast, great heroes of faith like Moses gave up temporary pleasures for eternal rewards (Hebrews 11:24-26).

If we hold onto ungodly habits and attitudes, we will dim our reflection. Pure lives reflect the most light.

Self-Examination

To keep your light shining, consider these questions:

• Are you feeding your light daily by studying God’s Word and letting it change you?
• Are you removing habits, thoughts, and attitudes that block the light?
• Are you hiding your faith out of embarrassment, or are you sharing it with others?

Let’s remove anything that stops God’s glory from shining through us. If you are not a Christian, let God illuminate your life and transform you through Jesus.