You were created to be a light to this world, a blessing to the world around you. (Click to tweet) Your presence is meant to be unmistakable and impactful as God uses you for the benefit of others. Jesus could not have been more clear when He spoke these words to the crowd:
“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. -Matt 5:14-16
God has placed you here with clear intent – like a lamp on a stand you come with great purpose. Your purpose is to bring light into the life of others. Your family time, your work environment, your church, your areas of civic involvement…these are strategic places where God has you in position to bring light into the darkness.
Now sometimes the scope of need in our lives can be overwhelming. Too often we look out and think, “How could I even make a dent?” That thought drives many of us backwards with fear and insecurity…somehow when the need is great we can easy shrink back and do nothing. We find the first basket we can get our hands on and we cover up that lamp!
I might not be able to solve all the worlds ills. I can affect whatever happens in my sphere of influence. Your sphere of influence is the people within your reach each week. These are the people you see at work or school, the people you run into at your kids activities, people you are connected to by cell phone or social media – they are the people that make up your sphere of influence.
This week consider your reach – your personal sphere of influence – and ask what you can do to serve people in that sphere. Consider making a declaration this week:
Let there be no one in my sphere who…
- Has yet to hear the good news of Jesus
- Has gone without a personal invite to Church
- Has missed out on the opportunity to serve & make a difference
- Wonders if they are valued
- Sits alone at the lunch table
- Wishes someone would pour into them and develop them
…because I am a light for this world, meant to be a source of blessing and encouragement to others!
Cory Lebovitz 