It makes sense when we hide from view those dark and embarrassing parts of ourselves. But it’s not unusual for us to also hide our light – the good God has gifted us with. A life of faith calls for us to bring our light out of the shadows as well.
Sometimes we hold back our genius because we simply want to fit in with those around us.
For example, a gifted student might not raise his hand in order to not stick out and appear odd in front of everyone else. His desire to belong keeps the light of his intellect in the shadows.
But perhaps more common is being blind to aspects of our own gifting.
Often it’s much easier to see other’s talents and abilities than our own.
What we take for granted shines bright as day for others. Or maybe our inner critic causes us to doubt we have anything of value to offer, though others can see it clearly.
In the end, our excellence stays in the shadows because we’ve not yet woken up to it.
And this is how we can serve each other – regularly reminding others of the good we see in them that they might miss themselves.
But this responsibility flows both ways.
We must be willing to receive the affirmation others pour out on us even if it causes us to stand out in ways that make us uncomfortable.
If we don’t call out the good we see in each other they might miss the fullness of who God has called them to be. And if we don’t receive it, then we still miss it and we’re without excuse.
Don’t let the light of your goodness stay in the shadows. Bring it out and use it to glorify God.
Photo by Onkundi Nyabuto on Unsplash
