Bible Journaling - Let Your Light Shine

Matthew 5:16 says, "In the same way, let your ligth shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."

Recently my hubby had the opportunity to take a mission trip to the Middle East.  He was able to see refugees from many countries who had fled for their lives.  These people just wanted a home, a safe place....hope.  The ministry he served with were giving those refugees material help, but the real goal was to share the only true hope that can be found in Jesus Christ.

 

This verse encapsulates all that went on.  Many good deeds were done.  People here gave money so my husband could go.  He went and served.  Those he served under have given their entire lives to minister there, and others before them have done the same.  One purpose unites all - the praise of our Heavenly Father.

While thinking about all that went on in his trip, I heard this phrase - "a redeemed heart produces a redeemed lifestyle."  This simple idea struck me.  God looks at our hearts above our actions.  He sees the motives behind what we say and do.  My thoughts should be the same as His.  Someone can say all the right words, look "Christian," and still be without Christ in their heart.  I need to focus on sharing Christ at a heart level and not get all caught up in outward stuff.  Redeemed lifestyles will naturally spring from redeemed hearts.

Being able to fit both these ideas onto the same page in my Bible was just perfect.  I'm making the most I can of the small white spaces.