Switching Your Faith On
“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”
When I was 18 years old, I memorized Matthew 5:14-16. Jesus’ metaphor here makes a lot of sense – and it really applies to our work. I’ve got a good friend who runs the ministry WorkLife.org. One of the things he talks about in his ministry is how believers “switch off” their faith when they go to work. It’s kind of like the modern-day version of sticking your light under a bowl.
When we switch off our faith, nobody gets to benefit from your light… because nobody even knows about your light. Yet, Jesus says that we – you and me - are the light of the world. Therefore, we need to let our light shine before men that they may see the good works that flow from the very Spirit of God inside us!
So, what does that look like?
When you are a follower of Jesus, good things naturally start to seep out of you, like light through cracks. Sure, it may take some time, and the dark, sinful things are often still mixed in. But the reality is that Jesus is renewing your mind and purifying your soul. This process, called sanctification, is lifelong. But “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)
Take a moment this week and consider these questions: Are you switching off your faith when you go to work? Is everyone around you benefiting from your faith whether they believe in Jesus or not? Is your light hidden or on a stand? Take the bowl off and smash it on the ground - be bright today!
For a dose of daily light and inspiration on your way to work, tune in to the iWork4Him PowerThought, a 1-minute daily challenge to live out your faith at work!
- Jim
About the Author, Jim Brangenberg
Jim's Mission: We are called to be examples of Christ to those around us. With that in mind, Jim is passionate about helping Christ followers connect their faith to their work!