God said, “Let there be light” (Genesis 1:3). As soon as God made the decree, light began. Physical light isn’t as important as spiritual light. Light is used to describe spiritual truth as opposed to darkness which describes spiritual rebellion and heresy. Jesus himself is the light of men (John 1:4). That spiritual light shone in the dark world and the dark world didn’t understand or overcome it (John 1:5).

Jesus said, “Ye are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14). Since Christians are the light of the world, we are to “let our light so shine before men; that they may see our good works, and glorify your Father who is in Heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Just like John we are here so that we might “bear witness of the light, that all might believe” (John 1:7).

In the Great Commission Jesus has again commanded for there to be light. He commanded us to go forth as his light bearers. We should be just as obedient to the Sovereign God as the original light particles sent out into the world. Before we can be light to others, we must first be lit by the Light. We study the Spirit revealed Word. We meditate on the person and work of Jesus. We ponder the glory of the Father. In these ways we become filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18).

Once we are filled with the spiritual Light, we share that light with others. Sharing the Light of God becomes second nature to us because we are filled with the Light to the overflow. Jesus said, “Neither do men light a lamp, and put it under the bushel, but on the stand; and it shines unto all that are in the house” (Matthew 5:15). God has purchased us to be his lamps to the world. God would have us to be filled with his Word so that we can be the light to those around us.

Christian, be light.