Encouragement from Mike MacIntosh

But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.
Philippians 1:12-14

Here in the city of Philippi, Paul is sitting in jail. He is not teaching in a church or synagogue. He is not on a street corner preaching; he is chained and in jail. Yet, in spite of his circumstances and surroundings, Paul's light is shining, he is being a witness for Jesus Christ, and the Gospel is being furthered. And the same can happen for you; you can be in your workplace, in your home, or at your school, and your light can shine brightly. Wherever you are, you can be a witness for Jesus Christ.

Paul had the palace guard watching him, and you have people watching you. They see when you deal honestly with people; they see your kindness and generosity demonstrated.

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

God wants you to have the confidence that you can shine like a bright beacon in this dark world. God has begun a good work in you and He promises to complete it. For some of you, that work began 20+ years ago, for some it has been a couple of years, and for others maybe just a couple of days, but He is doing a good work in you. So no matter where you are today and what you are doing, like Paul, let your light shine as you allow the Holy Spirit to use you!