What Candles Do

Have you ever been to a candle shop or watched people make candles? There are so many variations in candles! It seems like the possibilities are almost limitless. Differences in size, shape, color, design, fragrance, intended use, rate of burn—all these contribute to the huge variety in candles. But there is at least one thing all candles have in common: they are meant to burn and give off light. I think we are a lot like candles. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:14-16). God created us as individuals, and no two of us are alike. Our various traits—our strengths, talents, abilities, spiritual gifts, and even weaknesses—were given to us so that we could glorify God. He delights in us, and He invites us to share His love with others. Do you meet people easily and make friends quickly? You might be able to befriend people who don’t know Jesus and show them God’s kindness. Do you like working behind the scenes, organizing, and planning? You could use your abilities to help operations in your church go smoothly and create opportunities for people to hear the gospel—the good news about Jesus. Do you like to preach or teach? Meet the physical needs of others? Encourage people who are despairing? Whatever gifts and abilities God has given you, He will empower you to use them to do good to others. Let people see God’s love through you. Let them see God’s mercy, grace, peace, and kindness. Shine brightly! Shine, not to show others how good you are, but to show them how good our God is! • Rebecca Moore • Has someone in your life been a light to you, helping you know God better by the way they lived? Consider taking a moment to thank God for that person—and maybe thank the person too! • What are some of your strengths? How might God be giving you opportunities to use your strengths to serve others? “In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:16 (NLT)

Read Verses:

2 Corinthians 4:5-2 Corinthians 4:6; Philippians 2:14-Philippians 2:15; Matthew 5:16