Radiating God's Love

Author: Ayodeji Oludapo

Date: October 28, 2024

Scripture: "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)

Devotional Thoughts

The mandate of every child of God is simple: to radiate His love to a world that desperately needs it. Our salvation was never meant to be hidden away like a secret treasure. Rather, it is a brilliant light that is meant to shine brightly for all to see. When we have experienced the transformative love of God, the natural response should be to share it—showing others the way to the same redemption and hope we have found.

I remember a classmate from high school who had a deep encounter with Christ. He became passionate about telling everyone about God, even though we sometimes laughed at his zeal. He was relentless. He shared God's love in every conversation, invited us to church, and showed kindness even when he faced ridicule. Looking back, I now realize how his commitment to radiating God's love was planting seeds in our hearts. Even when others mocked him, he knew the joy and peace of being a child of God and understood that his light was too bright to be hidden.

In a dark world filled with fear, division, and hopelessness, we are called to be light. This light isn’t our own—it comes from God who has called us from darkness into His wonderful light. When we live out the love that God has shown us, we illuminate the path for those around us who are still walking in darkness. Our words, our actions, and even our attitudes can serve as a beacon of hope that draws others to Christ.

This love we radiate is not forceful; it’s gentle yet powerful. It’s shown in the way we love the unlovable, forgive the unforgivable, and help those who can give us nothing in return. By simply living out our faith authentically—through acts of kindness, compassion, and integrity—we reflect God’s love in a way that is impossible for others to ignore.

Practical Reflection

Consider how you can let your light shine in your everyday life. Perhaps there’s a coworker or neighbour who needs a listening ear, or maybe you have a family member who’s struggling and needs a word of encouragement. It could be as simple as being patient in stressful situations or praying for someone who has wronged you. Ask yourself: Am I living in such a way that those around me see the love of God through my actions?

Be bold and let your love for Jesus shine in your conversations and actions. You never know who is silently observing and being touched by the light of God in you. Just like my classmate who wasn’t discouraged by our laughter, remain faithful in sharing the love of Christ—remember, the seeds you plant today can grow into a beautiful testimony tomorrow.

Closing Thoughts

We are saved to shine, to reflect God’s love in every corner of our lives. God’s light in us can pierce through any darkness, but only if we allow it to shine through. You never know whose life you may transform by simply radiating God’s love—so don’t hide it. Let your salvation be contagious, and may your life be a testimony that draws others closer to God.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the light You have placed in me. Help me to let my light shine in such a way that others see You through me. Give me the courage to share Your love even when it isn’t easy, and use my life as a beacon that draws others to You. Let my actions, my words, and my heart always reflect Your love to the world around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.