“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 NASB)

 “What is my purpose?” “Why did God put me in this place at this time?” These or similar questions are asked by almost every believer in their Christian walk. There have been numerous books written, courses taught, Bible studies conducted, and sermons preached about how we can find our purpose once we’re saved. There are spiritual gifts tests and gifting assessments you can take hoping to be pointed in the right direction. Unfortunately, these are only as accurate as your perception of yourself or of the person helping you with the test. Besides, even after presumably knowing your gifts, you still have the question of where or how you can use them. The answer is actually the same for all of us. Today’s Scripture explains it. Simple enough to memorize and repeat. It’s the application that presents the challenge.

What does letting your light shine before men look like in everyday life? It’s not about walking around with a smile all the time, although there’s nothing wrong with that. It’s more about how you handle the everyday trials, disappointments, and aggravations that are bound to come around. Living as a Christian in a fallen world is a challenge for all of us. For instance, suppose your boss falsely accuses you of doing something you didn’t do. Others will see the way you handle that situation in the workplace. If you get mad and speak harsh words to them, or worse, talk behind their back, it reflects poorly on you. You can bet that if your coworkers know you are a Christian (as they certainly should), then you have given the unbelievers ammunition to mock you and your faith. If someone offends you do you still treat them with love or do you hold a grudge, or worse?

What makes Christians stand out from the rest of the world is their love for their neighbors. The Apostle John told us: “The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love” (1 John 4:8). Loving others is not an emotional thing, it is a purposeful act. When you decide that you are going to love others God’s light can shine through you. That in turn glorifies God. Glorifying God has some wonderful rewards. One of the best rewards for your decision to love others regardless of how they have treated you is that you will not carry the burden that comes from being offended. Even better, you know you are pleasing God.

Every believer’s purpose is to love. If you make that your goal every day and stay connected to the Lord through daily prayer, He will lead you on the path He made you to travel. In whatever you do and wherever you go make it a point to bring the love of God into every situation. That is how you can know you are fulfilling your purpose.

Have a great week and God bless.