As we deepen our relationship with God, we begin to be who God created us to be. Last week’s blog reminded us how important it is to become that new creation in Christ.
2 Corinthians 4:6 tells us God “made his light shine in our hearts.” It is exciting to think God gives us this light, and that light actually dwelt amongst us. Not only that, but that same light dwells within us still today. God’s light is here with us, in us and around us!
Becoming all God created us to be will lead us to that light. Often, it will takes us to new places. It has for me anyway.
As I begin to be all God created me to be, I find myself doing new things. One, I want to encourage others, especially in their relationship with God. Two, I want to shine my light in places I have never been. Three, I enjoy the mentor/mentee role. Even when I think I am the one doing the teaching, I always seem to be learning from the other party. Four, I love being a part of something bigger than myself.
The great thing is, I get to choose whether I participate in God’s work or not. That’s the beauty of it. God does not push Himself upon us. God just is.
“I AM who I AM”
Some years back, I was serving lunch to a group of homeless women. I thought I would help out because it feels good to give back. However, every time I help, I seem to get the blessing.
While serving up hot potato soup and pimento cheese sandwiches, I overheard one woman talking about her love of singing. Intrigued, I quickly grabbed my sandwich and plopped down next to her. Her eyes began to twinkle, as she reminisced about her days of vocal lessons and performances.
Later in the day, as I cleaned up the tables, she thanked me for the meal and asked what she owed me. Quickly I replied, “just a song.” Graciously, she rose to her feet as if she had performed a 100 times before. Chills ran down my spine, as she sang the saddest, most beautiful country song I had ever heard. In those moments, I saw her heart and I felt her pain. With tears in our eyes, I asked if I could hug her. As we embraced, I thanked her for sharing her gift with me. It felt as if her light got a little brighter that day. I know mine did.
“I saw her heart and felt her pain.”
As we acknowledge God within us, we begin to be so many things. Here are a few;
- We begin to be who God created us to be. Jeremiah 1:5 NIV says, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart;
- We begin to be the light. Matthew 5:16 says, “let your light shine before others”
- We begin to be encouragers. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up”
- We begin to be a mentor to others. Proverb 27:17 NLT says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.”
- We begin to be the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:27 NIV says, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.”
- We begin to be the kingdom of God on earth. Luke 17:21, KJV says, “the kingdom of God is within you.”
Just by recognizing God within us, our light shines a little brighter. And that light will encourage others. We are a part of the body of Christ and we carry that light everywhere we go. That light is the Kingdom of God, within me and within you. Be the light of the world. Be who God created you to be and embrace all God has for you.
Let us pray: God of light and love, forgive me for ignoring you, resisting you and acting like I don’t have time for you. Help me to become all that you would have me be and lead me to new places where I can shine your light. In Jesus Name, Amen.
P.S. leave me a comment below because I always love hearing from you. Forward this message to a friend and ask them to subscribe to this website. Post on Facebook and tag me in it. And until next time, let your light shine! -M
One thought on “Begin to BE (Part 2)”
Thank you for such a strong message. Love you 💓