Tag: Matthew 5:16

The Anchored Soul – Day 47 – Bridge or Barrier? The Silent Message of Your Daily Walk

On By KateIn Devotionals, The Anchored SoulLeave a comment

Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

I was listening to a message by Pastor Gary Hamrick recently. He asked the question: “Are you a steppingstone or a stumbling block to Jesus Christ?” Wow! What a thought-provoking question – one that everyone should be asking themselves. Every day, our words, actions, and attitudes serve as a bridge that draws others closer to the Savior, or a barrier that turns them away. We do not live in a neutral bubble; the life of a Christian constantly sends a message to a watching world about the character of God. Scripture calls us to examine our walk carefully, ensuring that our lives serve as a clear, inviting path to the cross rather than an obstacle that causes others to trip.

The Bible speaks directly to the danger of becoming a hindrance to another person’s faith. In Romans 14:13, the Apostle Paul admonishes, “Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.” When we live hypocritically, harbor ungracious attitudes, or compromise our integrity, we become a stumbling block – a tripping hazard for those seeking truth. Jesus issued a warning in Matthew 18:6, declaring, “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” Becoming a barrier to someone’s spiritual journey is a grave matter to God.

In contrast, God calls us to be steppingstones – living examples that help point them directly to Jesus. As a steppingstone, your kindness, patience, and unwavering faith (especially during difficult times) provide a solid place for those struggling to gain their footing. Jesus calls us to live transparently in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” When our lives reflect the fruit of the Spirit, we become a dependable path that guides lost and weary travelers toward God’s grace.

Think for a moment on your daily interactions with family, coworkers, and strangers. Ask yourself: Does my life make it easier or harder for people to believe in Jesus? By surrendering your heart daily and walking closely with the Lord, He will refine your witness through His Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 10:32–33, Paul provides the blueprint for a steppingstone life: “Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.” Lay down your self-interest and allow God to shape your life into a steppingstone that leads others into His eternal kingdom.

The Anchored Soul – Day 11 – The Story Your Life is Writing

On By KateIn Devotionals, The Anchored SoulLeave a comment

Matthew 5:16: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

In 2 Corinthians 3:2, the Apostle Paul describes believers as “epistles written in our hearts, known and read of all men.” This is a big deal for how we live out our faith: your life is the only Bible many people will ever read.

Our “walk” isn’t just about personal devotion; it’s a public testimony. When we live in a world that has lost its way, (Philippians 2:15) with integrity, kindness, and peace, we become lights in a dark room. We don’t have to shout to be heard; often, the quiet consistency of a life lived for the Lord speaks with a volume that words alone cannot achieve.

Whether you are standing in a grocery line, responding to a difficult email, or helping a neighbor, you are “writing” a story about who God is. When our actions align with our faith, we prove the Gospel and invite others to see the Father’s heart through our own!

This week, your mission is to be “Jesus with skin on.” Don’t just talk about your faith, show it through what you do and say. Before beginning your day, ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes and help you to feel His prodding when He opens a door for you to minister to someone.

  • With your actions: Do something kind for someone who doesn’t expect it and can’t pay you back.
  • With your words: Speak with patience and grace, especially to someone who is having a hard day.
  • When someone comes to your mind, don’t simply let the thought leave but act upon it and reach out.

What is one small thing you can do today to show God’s love to someone else?