HIDE IT UNDER A BUSHEL? NO. I’M GONNA LET IS SHINE!

MATTHEW 5:14-15
“You are the light of the world. A city set 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.”  

Jesus does not say, “You might become the light,” or “Once you've reached a certain point in ministry, you are the light.” He says, “You are the light of the world.” Light is not something we manufacture; it is something we steward. When Christ took residence in us, His light did too.

Yet how often do we hide it?

As women in ministry, we can often find ourselves in situations where we are tempted to place baskets over our light.  Fear, comparison, insecurity, or the lie that we’re “too much” or “not enough” all play into our urge to hide our light 'under a bushel'. So, we downplay our gifts. We quiet our calling. We shrink back when God invites us forward. But Jesus is clear: lamps are not meant for hiding. They are meant for illuminating.

Hiding our light helps no one- not the weary, not the searching, not the house it was meant to brighten. God didn’t entrust you with gifts, talents, influence, or a calling so they could remain unseen. He placed them in you so others could see Him through you.

Letting your light shine is not about self-promotion; it’s about obedience. It’s about trusting that God knew exactly what He was doing when He made you, called you, and positioned you where you are.

So today, ask yourself: What basket have I been hiding under? And what would it look like to lift it?

Don’t hide it under a bushel. No. Let it shine for His glory and for the good of those around you.