Shine Bright

“Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.” Philippians 2:14-15

As children of God, we are instructed to live clean, innocent lives, but we are also to shine like bright lights among the crooked and perverse. How do we shine bright amid the darkness of this world? Kindness might be a good place to start. Kindness is a bright light that dispels darkness. Kindness doesn’t need fanfare or accolades. It’s just something you do that makes other people feel important and thought about. Not only that, kindness has great benefits for the one who is being kind. 

Putting the well-being of others before our own without expecting anything in return can also boost our own health and happiness. Volunteering, for example,  has been shown to minimize stress and improve depression. Kindness can lower your blood pressure and even reduce physical pain. 

The love of God shines bright in you when you are kind to others, but don't forget -- any kindness you give to others is also a gift to yourself. Give (according to Luke 6:8) and it will be given to you.

Be intentionally kind today. God’s light will shine in the darkness and His blessing will be returned to you.