Shining Naturally

‘But may all who love you be like the sun when it rises in its strength.’ Judges 5.31

This is such a wonderful description: we can be like the rising sun to others, bringing light, warmth, comfort and joy.

Perhaps it is the naturalness of this that is most striking.  The sun does not have to summon up all its energy to rise and give off its strength – instead it happens as a natural part of being the sun.  Similarly, if we relied on our own effort and strength to shine for others we would soon become weary, but if it really does happen naturally then we can keep going because it comes easily to us.

It all begins with us loving the Lord, which in itself is about our desire to serve him and to want to be changed by him.  If this is our heart, then as we follow our instincts and are attentive to those around us, we will shine with him today.

Where did you shine yesterday?  This is not boasting but is about paying attention to how God has flowed through you.  Most of the time, we are unaware of how he uses us from day to day and this can lead to a sense of despondency and worthlessness, but to spend a moment reflecting on the ways we have been used can be such a great encouragement for the day ahead.

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