Shining Without the Shadow of Anxiety
A lamp shines best when it is placed where everyone can see it.
Devotional Credit:
eManna – Witness Lee
Photo Credit:
Unsplash
In Matthew 5:14-15, Jesus describes His kingdom people as the light of the world, a city on a hill that cannot be hidden. Witness Lee points out that our light can be obscured if we allow the “bushel” of life’s anxieties to cover it. In biblical times, a bushel measured grain and was directly tied to daily provision. The Lord chose this image deliberately, showing that anxiety over our livelihood can dim the testimony of His life in us.
If we allow concerns over income, security, or future needs to dominate our attention, we end up hiding the very light He has ignited within us. Instead, the Lord places His people on a “lampstand” — visible, radiant, and free from the weight of worry. This freedom is not rooted in ignoring reality, but in trusting the One who has already provided everything pertaining to life and godliness.
According to Witness Lee, kingdom people are marked by joy and praise, their lives uncluttered by fear about tomorrow. Their neighbors notice not only their words, but also their settled confidence in the Lord’s care. They radiate peace that cannot be manufactured and a gladness that flows from knowing they belong to Jesus and are part of His body, the church.
This means our daily testimony is not merely about avoiding wrong actions, but about living in such a way that the cares of this life do not eclipse His light. When we yield to His indwelling Spirit, He displays through us the rest and trust that the world is aching to see.
Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
You are the light of the world because I dwell in you. I have placed you where My life can be seen, not hidden under the shadows of fear or anxiety. Do not cover the light I have kindled in you with the weight of worry about your needs. Your Father knows what you require before you ask, and He delights to provide.
The life I have given you is not sustained by constant striving, but by resting in My sufficiency. I have clothed the lilies and fed the sparrows, and you are far more precious than they. When you fix your heart on Me and My kingdom, everything else will be supplied in its time.
Do not let the concerns of making a living choke out the joy of living in Me. You are free to walk in peace, free to give thanks always, free to let My light reach every person you encounter. Live without fear of tomorrow. Abide in Me today, and let My peace be the lampstand that carries your light into the world.
Scripture References: Matthew 5:14–15, Matthew 6:25–34, Philippians 4:6–7, 2 Peter 1:3, Colossians 3:15–17, Psalm 55:22, 1 Peter 5:7, John 15:4–5
Real-Life Analogy
Imagine setting your phone face-down while a message notification lights up the screen. The light is there, but no one sees it because it’s hidden. Turning it over instantly reveals what was already shining. In the same way, anxiety is like placing your light face-down — it’s still there, but hidden from those who need it.
Today, when financial stress, work pressure, or uncertainty tries to steal your focus, pause and acknowledge His life in you. Then, as you move forward, you might say, “Lord, I trust You to shine Your life through me in this moment, free from the weight of worry.” This simple turning of your heart lifts the “bushel” so His light can reach those around you.
Prayer of Confidence
Lord, thank You that I never have to live under the shadow of anxiety. You have placed me where Your life can be seen, and You have already promised to meet every need I have. I rejoice that I am free to focus on You and to let Your peace and joy overflow to others. I affirm that my life is not driven by fear of tomorrow, but by the certainty of Your provision and the reality of Your presence in me.