Command 4 : Let Your Light Shine | Day 24

Shine With Good Works!

As we continue meditating on Matthew 5:16, we see the direct connection between letting our light shine and doing good works. In fact, it is through our good works that the world is able to see the light and love of Christ in us. It is for this important reason that Jesus made us unique through salvation.

Jesus redeemed "us from all iniquity,... [to] purify unto himself a... [unique] people, zealous of good works” (Titus 2:14).

It is certainly important to share our faith with others. However, the command does not say, "Let your light so shine that men will hear your good words." Actually, many people will not want to hear what we have to say until they see our works of love. This is why God makes good works such a priority for believers.

• “These things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works” (Titus 3:8).
• “Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works” (Hebrews 10:24).
• “Whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation” (I Peter 2:12).

A good work is meeting a need in the life of another that will cause him or her to give glory to God.

This wise counsel, "Wherever you are, witness for Christ, and when necessary use words," is based on the words found in I Peter 3:15: "Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you."

The Communist leaders of a certain nation were so impressed with the brightness of young people on our staff that they asked if 30 of them could come talk to the students in their public schools about character. However, we were told that we could not witness about our faith. We enthusiastically accepted this "good work," based on the powerful witness of the brightness of these staff members.

The government assigned a Communist official to be with our group throughout the week. At the end of the week he stated, "You have passed the test. Now we want you to come back on a more permanent basis." As I write this e-mail to you, many young people and families we have sent to this nation are having a profound impact on leaders, parents, and students. They are permitted to answer questions about their faith, and as a result, many individuals have put their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ.

What good works could we invite others to join us in doing so that the world will see our love for Christ and for them and then ask us for a reason of the hope that we have?