Devotion: I'm Goin'a Let it Shine
Luke 11:33 – “No one lights a lamp and then hides it or puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where its light can be seen by all who enter the house. NLT
When I didn’t win a writing contest I’d entered a while back, I was struck with a rapid and severe bout of self-pity. I’d made it to the top five of over three hundred entries, but the winner was selected by those reading the stories online and then voting.
I’d prayed for the Lord’s will to be done, I’d made myself vulnerable by putting my work out there for people to critique, called on family and friends to support me, but it wasn't I who took first place. I couldn’t help feeling sorry for myself.
However, as I prayed about my negative feelings, they began to evaporate. I thought of the good streaming in from the contest, the inspiration and creativity The Lord had given me, the fun writing the short story. I've since posted it on my blog. (The Delinquents)
It pleased me to entertain my readers. I reconnected with folks I hadn’t talked to in a long while. And positive words flowed in by many readers who took the time to write me a personal note of encouragement before forwarding my story on to others so they might vote.
That got me thinking about gifts, spiritual and otherwise: those with the gift of music who can touch a place in our souls. Artists who paint nature in such a vivid way we feel nearer to God. Carpenters who build steeples toward the heavens. So my gift of writing has the potential to bring light to the world. It's meant to glorify Him and touch the hearts and souls of people and turn them to Him.
When I keep my focus on The Lord and off myself, when I understand that whatever I produce is a gift from Him and I must offer it right back to be used as He sees fit, then He provides inspiration and His creativity springs up from within me. Then my work is blessed and my gift, my light, shines as an inspiration for others to draw near Him.
Holy God, Thank you for my gifts and the spiritual gifts of others. Help us always remember to shine our light so that it directs all to You.
Written by Linda Sawyer