ARISE and SHINE oh sleeper !

Scripture

“Arise, shine; For your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; But the Lord will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you.” - Isaiah 60:1-2

Observation 

 This scripture isn’t a suggestion but a commandment for all children of God. “Arise” “shine” are both action words. Few of the translations that stood out to me when searching up the root meaning of the word “arise “ is to “come on the scene” and to “stand up “. “To shine” also translates to “become light” . This indicates as children of God some of us have fallen, sleeping or being mixed up with darkness . However no more of that.

Why ? Because God Himself is equipping us and bringing forth His glory and light in us. We are carriers of light if we carry the glory and the light of God .The glory of God is His essence , richness , abundance, reputation, manifest presence amongst many other definitions. None of which can be hidden once it finds expression in you. Light on the hand also cannot be ignored .

This scripture also reaffirms the evil that we currently see in our world. It should not be a surprise to us because the Bible already lets us know how dark this world and its inhabitants are. However there is hope . That hope is Jesus , the light of this world . Furthermore this hope lives in us as children of God . Creation is waiting for the manifestation of the children of God. (Romans 8:19)

Application

No matter how dark a room is, once a light switch is turned on , the room lights up and everything becomes visible . You’re most likely going to stumble , injure or fall when you cannot see where you’re going . The world is full of darkness hence why a lot of people are living in ignorance, disobedience , deception, wickedness amongst many others . However the world needs you and I . Why ? We are carriers of light. Darkness cannot overcome light. (John 1:5)

The confidence that comes from arising and shining is in the light . Our source of light is Jesus , we seize to arise or shine when we neglect our intimacy with God . How can you produce light and shine so bright when you’ve disconnected from your power source ?

Do not be afraid to arise and shine wherever you find yourself. Unfortunately some of us leave the “God stuff” for Sundays , whilst we fall victim to the gimmicks and systems of this world from Monday - Saturday. The time has come to arise and let your light shine . Represent Jesus at your workplace , your school , your relationship, your friendship group and everywhere else. Let Jesus, the answer to the mess of this cruel and dark world find expression.

Prayer

Heavenly Father thank You for Your word today. Thank You for being the light of this world. Thank You Father that Your light and glory shines through us when we allow ourselves to be used as vessels. Grant us the grace and the confidence we need to emulate You wherever we find ourselves in Jesus name I pray amen.

@Athaliahsartistry