The Light Of The World / 2026 Identity In Christ

The Light Of The World / 2026

Mixed Media Collage On Canvas

16 in X 20 in

This painting was inspired by Matthew 5:14-16, " You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 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."

When Jesus spoke these words at the Sermon on the Mount, He was teaching ordinary people without titles, influence or social or political power and revealing to them who they are as believers in Jesus Christ. He spoke very plainly and told them, "You are the light of the world". He didn't tell them that once they had it all together...at some point in the future they would be lights in the world, He told them they already are lights. Jesus was teaching them and is teaching us about our identity in Him.

Whether you're a new believer in Christ or have been a believer for many years, your complete identity is found in Jesus Christ and He says you are a light for Him in this dark world. The moment you surrender and give your life to Him, His Spirit comes into your spirit and shines through you. Your growth as a Christian is not based on your performance but on transformation as you walk in relationship with Christ and allow His word to transform your heart and mind. As you read His word, agree with it and put it into action in your life, little by little you're being healed and transformed into His likeness and you are reflecting His light to others. Very good news!

In the word of God, light represents God's presence; life, holiness and truth. Light exposes darkness and defeats it. Light brings clarity and truth into all areas it is given access to: our homes, marriages, families, friendships, church, ministries, businesses, schools, communities, including social media. God places us in many different environments so that we can be His light.

"A city built on a hill cannot be hidden" means that as we consistently walk with Him, being obedient to His word and His ways, the light will become visible to others around us. We don't have to compete with others...just be His light consistenty. People watch how Christians behave and over time, the light will reveal itself in all circumstances. When people see true Christian living and the blessing upon a believers life, they are drawn to Christ and want to know more about their relationship with Him.

When you know your identity as a light, you walk with clarity, hope, confidence and freedom. His light shines brightly to the world around you, bringing glory to His name because you're His. So go shine!

Love in Christ,

Toni

Scripture:

"No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead they put it on it's stand, so that those who come in may see the light." (Luke 11:33)

"Arise and shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you."

(Isaiah 60:1)

"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."

(John 1:5)

"So that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation, then you will shine among them like stars in the sky. "

(Philippians 2:15)

"Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them."

(Ephesians 5:1)

"Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness."

(1John 2:9)