Shine and Be Useful By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture:
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16, NKJV)
---Introduction
The world is enveloped in darkness, confusion, and chaos, with many souls wandering aimlessly without hope. In these trying times, God calls His people to shine His light and be useful vessels for His Kingdom. This lesson explores the importance of living as shining beacons of Christ’s light, boldly declaring the Gospel, and actively participating in God’s plan to save and redeem the lost.
---The Call to Shine in Darkness
In this darkened world, God’s people are called to let the Light of Christ shine in their hearts. Hiding the light of salvation is contrary to God’s purpose. Believers must boldly proclaim the message of Jesus Christ to bring hope to those trapped in sin and despair.
"Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you." (Isaiah 60:1, NKJV)
To shine is to allow the light of Christ to manifest through our actions, words, and faithfulness. This light is desperately needed, especially in times of spiritual and moral decline.
---Be Useful in God’s Plan
God’s purpose for His people is not only to shine but also to be useful in building His Kingdom. Being useful involves boldness, faith, and a willingness to serve as witnesses of Christ’s transformative power.
"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10, NKJV)
Those who have been redeemed are expected to work for the furtherance of God’s Kingdom. This requires active engagement, prayer, and obedience to the Holy Spirit.
---Fear is Not From God
Fear can cripple a believer’s ability to shine and be useful. The enemy uses fear to silence and weaken God’s people. However, God’s Spirit gives us boldness and confidence to stand firm in faith.
"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7, NKJV)
Faith in God’s protection and provision enables believers to overcome fear and proclaim the Gospel with courage.
---Proclaim the Gospel Boldly
Jesus’ command to His disciples was clear: go into all the world and preach the Gospel. This is not just a suggestion; it is a mandate for every believer.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:19, NKJV)
Sharing the Gospel is the ultimate way to shine and be useful. It brings hope to the hopeless and sets captives free from the bondage of sin and fear.
---The Danger of Hiding the Light
Hiding the light of Christ results in spiritual stagnation and missed opportunities to impact lives. Jesus’ teachings remind us that the light is meant to be visible, not hidden.
"Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house." (Matthew 5:15, NKJV)
Believers must overcome complacency and boldly declare their faith, trusting God to work through them.
---Summary
The call to shine and be useful is an invitation to live a life of purpose, boldly reflecting the light of Christ in a world filled with darkness. This requires unwavering faith, obedience, and a commitment to sharing the Gospel.
---A Call to Action
Believers are encouraged to examine their lives and ask:
- Are you shining the light of Christ in your daily interactions?
- Are you actively engaged in sharing the Gospel?
- Are you overcoming fear with faith?
Now is the time to rise, shine, and be useful for God’s Kingdom.
---Conclusion
God’s plan for His people is to be light in the darkness, bringing hope, salvation, and transformation to a lost and dying world. By yielding to the Holy Spirit and stepping out in faith, believers can fulfill their divine purpose and impact lives for eternity.
---Final Word of Encouragement
Do not grow weary or fearful in your mission. Remember, you are empowered by the Spirit of God to shine and be useful. Rejoice in the privilege of serving the King of Kings and know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." (1 Corinthians 15:58, NKJV)
