CSB
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
NIV
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
ESV
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Memorization Strategies
Try one or two of these strategies to make memorizing easier, especially for dyslexia and learning differences.
Let your light shine so people praise God.
- In the same way: sweep one hand from side to side, like connecting this to what Jesus just said about light and salt.
- let your light shine before others: point to your chest, then spread your fingers out like light rays.
- so that they may see your good works: point to your eyes, then mime doing a simple good action, like handing something to someone.
- and give glory to your Father in heaven: point upward and then bring your hands together in front of you like praise or worship.
Draw a dark background with a small house or person holding a bright lamp or flashlight. Above the light, write “Let your light shine,” and near the top of the page write “so people praise your Father in heaven.”
Head Summary
Jesus says his followers are like lights in a dark world. Our lives are meant to shine, not so people think we are amazing, but so they see our good works and give glory to God. The goal of a shining life is that people notice what we do and end up praising our Father in heaven, not us.
Heart Prompt
Do you ever feel tempted to do good things mainly so people will notice or praise you? How would it change your attitude if you saw every act of kindness or obedience as a way to point people to God instead of to yourself? What are some “lights” God has already placed in you or your family that could help others see what he is like?
Hands Practice
As a family, choose one simple “light” this week: a kind act for a neighbor, an encouraging note, a small gift, or serving someone who needs help. Do it without making a big deal about yourselves, and quietly pray, “Father, let this help them see Your goodness.” Later, talk about how it felt to do good works with the goal of God’s glory instead of your own.
Family Question
If someone watched our family for a week, what might they learn about God from the way we live, talk, and treat others?
Prayer
Father, thank You for making us the light of the world in Jesus. Help our family to let our light shine before others in the way we live. May people see our good works and give glory to You, not to us. Show us specific ways to shine for You this week. Amen.