By Teresa Savage // Faith // EEW Magazine Online

Legendary gospel duo, BeBe and CeCe Winans, used to sing a song together called “Hold Up The Light.” The lyrics inspire believers to “save the world from darkness.” That’s our mission and mandate. So, you glow girl! Shine bright like a diamond for the Kingdom.

The admonishment to be a light did not originate with the Winans; that came from Jesus. In His famous Sermon on the Mount, He told Christians, “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14.). Therefore, we bring His love and light into spiritually dark places. This is accomplished through sharing and living the principles of the gospel, making us a shining example for all the world to see.

When you show up in the world, you glow in the dark like a flashing neon sign promoting Jesus. Maybe you want to know how to shine even brighter for God and make your Christian attributes sparkle like a scintillating star.

We’ve got you covered. But first, keep in mind that we are not saved by works, but by faith in Christ. However, once we accept the gift of salvation, we are expected to produce righteous fruit, good works, and radiate Jesus, the Light of the World. With all that being said, you are now ready to supercharge your Kingdom glow. EEW Magazine Online is here to share 9 ways to effectively do it.

#1 Be more loving: In a world full of hatred and ugliness, be an example of Christ’s love which will make you stand out. When others see your compassion and kindness extended to everyone—especially the hard-to-love—they will know you are a true disciple of Christ (John 13:35). Jesus shines brightest when you put His love on full display.

#2 Stop hiding: There’s nothing wrong with preferring to be in the background, but when the opportunity arises for you to showcase your gifts and talents, don’t shy away. Through your excellence, someone will see the image of your excellent Savior. Scripture says “whatever you do, do it for the glory of God; in this way, you serve Christ” (Colossians 3:23-24).

#3 Do more good stuff: Ephesians 2:10 (GW) makes it plain: “God has made us what we are. He has created us in Christ Jesus to live lives filled with good works that he has prepared for us to do. By doing good stuff, you’re living in purpose and being a light in dark, desolate, and desperate places. As a member of the Body of Christ, when you extend your hand to help others, you act as an extension of Christ. After all, Christ’s love resulted in an action. He loved us so much, He gave His life! What will you give?

#4 Share your faith: How will the world hear the good news of the gospel if no one tells them (Romans 10:14)? The Holy Spirit empowers you to be an effective witness for Christ (Acts 1:8). There are so many ways to share Jesus. Some take to the streets. Others go inside prisons. Millions use social media and join causes for social good. There are unlimited ways to let someone know that Jesus loves them, that He is the answer, and that He is the only way to eternal life. So, get busy.

#5 Pray for someone: When you encounter those that are heartbroken, grieving, sick, lost, confused, or simply in need of guidance, offer to pray for them. You are shining Christ’s light when you intercede for others. In fact, you are imitating Him when you do so. Scripture tells us that Jesus “is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us” (Romans 8:34).

#6 Let your words uplift: Let others fight, bicker, and be divisive, while you remain gracious and encouraging. Jesus said in Matthew 15:11, “it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.” What escapes your lips reflects what’s in your heart. Therefore, if you have the heart of Christ, it will show, and you will glow! “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15).

#7 Suffer, yet remain faithful: There is no shame in suffering as a Christian. It is in fact an opportunity to glorify God (1 Peter 4:16). To suffer is to be like Christ and show others His sustaining power. Although trials and tests are unpleasant and sometimes feel overwhelming, when you remain loyal and joyful through seasons of affliction, unbelievers take notice. Many will want the same peace, joy, and strength you have, which then gives you an opportunity to point back to the One who has given all those things to you (2 Timothy 2:3-4).

#8 Practice radical forgiveness: Forgiveness is divine! In our humanness, we don’t know how to release offenses and pardon someone who has wronged us. But here’s the thing: we can do all things through Christ (Philippians 4:13). When you don’t hold grudges—even when a person has done something terrible—others will take notice and declare, there is no way you could have forgiven that offense were it not for Christ working in your heart. Freely give forgiveness, as you have freely received it.

#9 Embrace a Kingdom perspective: We live in the world, but we are not of the world (John 17:16). Though we reside on earth, we are just passing through because we are ultimately citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. Thus, we embrace a Kingdom perspective. That means rooting our lifestyle choices, ideas and philosophies in the Word of God. Christians must constantly be evaluating themselves and regularly asking, what is the Bible’s take on this idea? When we represent God’s Kingdom with consistency, we glow and help make disciples.

There are numerous avenues to disciple-making. The 9 ways we have shared here provide strong foundational principles to get you in alignment.

It’s important to seek the Lord for guidance, strength, and help on your journey to be an effective witness.