What does a radiant life look like? When we shine for Jesus what kind of illumination is it that others see? Moses spent time in the presence of God and his face was radiant (Exodus 34:29). The outer luminescent quality was visibly evident to others. Is that how we are to appear to others if we shine for Jesus? The Bible speaks of a radiance that comes from looking on the face of God (Psalm 34:5), and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like stars (Dan. 12:3).
If the Bible meant that Christians are to shine with the visible radiance that Moses had, we would have to conclude that true Christians are rare indeed, for not many people in this world literally radiate spiritual light. On the other hand, the spiritual reality of Christ within is evident in the lives of many Christians. When someone turns to the Lord in faith, they begin to reflect the glory of the Lord. The glory of the lord is reflected in our lives as we are transformed into his likeness (2 Cor. 3:16-18). God shines in our hearts to give us the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ (2 Cor. 4:6). Christ within becomes evident to others as we shine in contrast to those who do not have Christ (Phil. 2:15). When they begin to see us shine, they will recognize it as evidence of God's goodness (Matt. 5:16). Therefore, do not cover your light, but let it shine (Matt. 5:15). That way, those who do not know Christ may wake up and Christ will shine on them too (Eph. 5:14).
