By Lisa Santelli

Do you have a favorite social media influencer? Someone who grabs your attention, seems genuine and promotes products you connect with. Maybe they are funny and have a way of gaining interest. Or maybe they are stylish, and you add each trendy piece to your cart. Or, maybe they are savvy, and you lean in to learn every tool and tip of their trade. Successful influencers possess a unique spark that gains enthusiasm and followers, and the hope is they are steering that influence wisely.

In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus says, “You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are 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 in heaven.” In this passage, Jesus is calling us to higher ground. As believers, we have accepted Jesus into our hearts and have the guidance of the Holy Spirit. There is a renewal that takes place, where our old ways are gone, and we are transformed into a new being. As this transformation process continues to take hold in us, a brighter light shines through. Jesus is saying, where you used to be disgruntled and angry, but now joy is pouring out… let it shine. Where you used to carry so much anxiety and worry, but now hold a beautiful peace… let it shine. Where you used to be attached to addiction or suffered great trauma, but now healing and restoration have taken place… let it shine.

Philippians 1:6 says, “He who began a good work in you will carry it to completion.” This transformation process, the good work which Jesus started in you, may your brightness radiate for all those around you. Jesus is proud of you, and He implanted a holy purpose for you to share your light, to be an influencer, in your circle of impact. And, you don’t even have to post on social media about it. Others are already watching. Your transformation is a witness to the goodness of God.

But, maybe you’re thinking, “I don’t feel so shiny,” or “How do I shine bright, when I’m still facing trouble?” Allowing your light to glow isn’t about having all your problems disappear. Instead, it’s clinging to Jesus IN times of trouble, and allowing His peace, His presence, His power to take hold. That’s when others are really paying attention. They see the chaos happening, but you remain unshaken, because you’ve plugged into the Source. And, Jesus isn’t just the light bulb, He’s the whole electrical grid, empowering you, equipping you and encouraging you to keep glowing radiantly. When others see your response, they are drawn to the Jesus in you. Being an influencer of Jesus is less about likes and who is following you, and more about loving others well and pointing others to Jesus. With Jesus as your focus, your light will continue to shine bright to all around you.