What does it mean exactly, to be a light to others?

[humble soul]

I might think I know the answer to this already, but sometimes another perspective will awaken more insights.
Here is one answer on the net;

"In many different faith traditions as well as in the secular world, many people are encouraged to be light to others or to bring light to others - but what does this mean? To be the light means in times of darkness you offer hope, encouragement, kindness and compassion"

 

[humble soul]

you offer hope, encouragement, kindness and compassion"

Hope and encouragement. That is something I tend to forget. People feel despair. They need help.

 

[humble soul]

I've never read Faulkner nor seen movies based on his books. Watched this one today....
Intruder in the Dust.
Good examples of characters choosing to be the light in the darkness.
A bit like Atticus in To Kill a Mockingbird. Gregory Peck.
Choosing to stand up for what is just and right despite majority prejudice and thinking.
This was a good movie anyway. Especially the old lady character. She was cool as a cucumber!!

 

[Who Me]

To be an example of how to live, behave, speak detc but above all to be a signpost or witness to Jesus.

 

[humble soul]

We have to be careful, when we smugly point out the faults of others. We reassure ourselves that we are exposing the evil that lurks in the dark with our powerful flashlight!
Yet do we mind that same flashlight being shone on us?
Whenever we shine the light to expose, we must be prepared to be totally transparent ourselves.

 

[EvolvingChristian]

I might think I know the answer to this already, but sometimes another perspective will awaken more insights.
Here is one answer on the net;

"In many different faith traditions as well as in the secular world, many people are encouraged to be light to others or to bring light to others - but what does this mean? To be the light means in times of darkness you offer hope, encouragement, kindness and compassion"

My guess is to be a living example of Christ by being charitable to others, particularly to those in need. I'm sure someone more filled with the Holy Spirit can explain it better.

 

[EvolvingChristian]

People feel despair. They need help.

They need faith. We must help them to find their faith. Sometimes all we can do is pray for them.

 

[EvolvingChristian]

We have to be careful, when we smugly point out the faults of others. We reassure ourselves that we are exposing the evil that lurks in the dark with our powerful flashlight!
Yet do we mind that same flashlight being shone on us?
Whenever we shine the light to expose, we must be prepared to be totally transparent ourselves.

Well said.

I heard a preacher (don't remember who) say that people are always praying to stop somebody else's sins but not their own. LOL. So true!
I will add that there is a right way (God's way) to inform another of their sin and a WRONG way of informing another and most of us usually do the latter.

 

[EvolvingChristian]

Hebrews 13:16 ” Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God”

 

[humble soul]

heard a preacher (don't remember who) say that people are always praying to stop somebody else's sins but not their own

Classic!!