Manna for Your Morning

In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. — John 1:1-4 (NLT) Jesus brings light to everyone. He receives everyone who comes to Him. If you open the door of your heart to Him, He enters. He comforts the brokenhearted (Isaiah 61:1). He brings Good News to the poor (Luke 4:18). He sets the captives free. In John 8:12, Jesus said, “ I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. ” Let us live in His light. As we abide in His light, sadness is turned to joy and we experience everlasting peace. In Matthew 5:14, Jesus tells believers: “ You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden .” Don’t try to hide the light of the Lord within you. Let it shine! ...

Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, — Philippians 2:14-15 (NKJV) As children of God, may we be a reflection of His glory. We were all created to shine and let the glory of God in us, illuminate the world around us. Just as each star is unique, we all have our own way to shine and release the glory of God on the earth. Let us passionately pursue God's plan and purpose for our lives, without murmuring or questioning the providence of God.  The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine. (Proverbs 4:18 MSG) Jesus said, “ Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. ” (Matthew 5:16 NKJV)

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; — 1 Peter 2:9 (NKJV) You were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light. (Ephesians 5:8 NASB) We have been called into His marvelous light. Now we are light. As children of God, let us live above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom we appear as lights in the world of darkness. (Philippians 2:15) How do we shine? We shine as we share the love, kindness, and grace of Jesus Christ. We shine has we exude the peace and joy, that He has given to us. As we proclaim His praises, we shine. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, — Philippians 2:14-15 (NKJV) It’s a matter of choice whether to continually complain or fill our mouths with thanksgiving to God, at all times. Instead of complaining about traffic, I thank God for waking me up this morning. I thank Him for the job I get to go to and the properly functioning car that gets me there. I appreciate the beautiful sunrise that God paints for me, on my way to work. Decide today to lay aside the fault finding and complaining and focus on all of the wonderful blessings God showers upon you, every moment of the day!