Written By: Mary Martinez
If you grew up going to Sunday School, you have likely heard the song, “This Little Light of Mine.” The song is inspired by Matthew 5:14-16:
“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
“This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine…” The Holy Spirit whispered this simple yet powerful song back into my heart this week. The current events flooding my news feed and television screen have left my heart broken and pleading for healing for our land and salvation for the lost. I have felt a darkness overshadowing the world, which has had me on my knees in desperate prayer, seeking wisdom and guidance. It is through this 100-year-old song that God whispered the word shine to me and reminded me of the only thing that overcomes darkness, LIGHT!
In the beginning, God separated the light from the darkness (Genesis 1:4). God is light, and in Him, there is NO darkness at ALL (1 John 1:5). Jesus became the light of the world, and His sacrifice has given us the light of life (John 8:12). Though we were once darkness, we are now light because of His grace (Ephesian 5:8). Now that we are in the light, we are called to be set apart, chosen, and called out of darkness (1 Peter 2:9 and 2 Corinthians 6:14). We can now walk in confidence as children of light (Luke 8:16), knowing we will not walk in darkness again (John 8:12). There is a war going on between good and evil, light and dark. We have been called into battle and are advised to put on the armor of light (Ephesians 6:12, Romans 13:12). We are not alone in this battle; victory is the Lord’s. The light has overcome the darkness (John 1:5). God’s light (which shines in us) brings salvation to the lost (1 Peter 2:9). We are to let our light shine in a broken world (Colossians 3:17).
Jesus is the light of the world. As followers of Christ, we are called to be beacons of His light to those in our homes, neighborhoods, workplaces, churches, and communities. Illuminating the darkness. Set apart from the darkness. God is calling us to let our light shine!
“Arise, shine, for your light has come, And the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.” (Isaiah 60:1)
Lord, You alone are worthy! I lift my eyes to heaven, and thank You for bringing me out of darkness and into light. Give me wisdom to flee from darkness, recognizing the schemes of the enemy. You have called me to be separate from the darkness; give me courage, strength, and boldness to shine. Thank You that I never have to walk in darkness and that You go before me. Thank You for giving me the armor of light. I put it on with confidence, knowing that You have already won the battle, and I don’t have to live in fear. Amen
Written By: Mary Martinez
