Matthew 5:14-16 (NKJV): "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."

Since the light and life of Christ burns inside us, we will always shine in contrast to the darkness of the world around us. Standing out is what we are meant to do. Whether we like it or not, there is going to be constant conflict between God's covenant truth, and the distorted views of the world. We mustn't be surprised when we're persecuted for living unashamedly for God. However, we must be sure our suffering is not due to our own foolishness or disobedience. We influence the world by allowing the love and character of God to shine from us. His pure, uncompromising nature brings the salt and light where the world around us is distracted by deception and lost in confusion. Live boldly in your identity as a child of God. Put on the nature of Christ, and recognise you have been called out of darkness into His marvellous light! Don't fight for your own identity; reflect who you are in Him. Let the light that transformed you, show others the way to truth and holiness today.