Display Cases for God's Glory

Matthew 5-7, affectionately known as “The Sermon on the Mount”, is one of the most well-known pieces of Scripture in existence. These chapters teach us about behavior and attitude, and how to please God as we live on earth.We often give these teachings to children as they grow, hoping to instill in them godly values and goals. In the introduction to His sermon, Jesus compares us to salt and light, saying:

“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. -Matthew 5:13–16 (NASB95)

The point of these comparisons is clear: we should behave differently than the world. We should always be seen in contrast to worldly values and desires.

We tend to do very well with this teaching when our life is peaceful and easy. All of us have mountaintop experiences in life, when our minds are clear and centered on God and furthering His kingdom. During those times of spiritual security we stand firm in the Scriptures and we may even consider ourselves to be invincible. It feels good when everything is going right.

What about when life gets complicated? What do you do when your mind becomes muddied by pride and emotional distress? Maybe your marriage is on the rocks, maybe your children are making poor life choices. Our natural reaction is to start pointing fingers to blame someone for the difficulty we’re facing. The disciples did that very thing as they came upon a blind man in John 9:2ff:

And His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him. -John 9:2-3 (NASB95)

Instead of looking for someone to blame, let’s remember to be light in the world. Brothers and sisters, let’s use our difficulties and our struggles as a display case for godly behavior. As you endure pain and hardship, those around you will be watching to see your reaction. Show them the light of Christ. Let the works of God be displayed in you.