Your Light Must Shine at Work

Chioma arrived at her office on Monday morning, dreading the usual gossip in the break room. Her colleagues often mocked Christians, especially those who refused to join in shady business dealings or compromise their integrity. As she sat at her desk, she wondered: Does my faith actually matter here? Can I really be a witness in this place?

This is the tension many Nigerian believers face. We spend eight or more hours each day at work, in markets, in schools, surrounded by people who do not know Christ. Yet Jesus gave us a clear mandate in Matthew 5:16: our good works must be visible. Not flashy. Not preachy. But undeniably different.

When our Lord says “Let your light so shine,” He is not speaking of a hidden faith or a Sunday-only Christianity. The Greek word for light here—*phos*—means illumination that exposes and guides. Your light at work exposes the darkness of dishonesty when you refuse to pad invoices. Your light guides a confused coworker when you show genuine kindness in their crisis. Your light shines when you work diligently, speak truth gently, and handle conflict with the peace of God.

Notice what follows: “that they may see your good works.” People notice. Your colleague who watches you forgive the supervisor who embarrassed you publicly sees Christ. Your client who receives honest counsel instead of expensive lies sees Christ. Your family member who observes your joy despite financial pressure sees Christ. These works are not virtue-signalling; they are the natural overflow of a heart surrendered to Jesus.

The ultimate purpose is powerful: “and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Your witness is not about you becoming famous or liked. It is about your Father receiving glory. When Nigerians in your office, your market stall, your neighbourhood see integrity, compassion, and hope in you, they are moved to glorify the God you serve.

The apostle Peter wrote, “Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God” (1 Peter 2:12). People may initially speak against you for your faith. But your consistent, excellent, loving conduct will silence slander and open hearts.

This week, identify one area of your workplace or community where your light can shine brighter. Perhaps it is completing a task with excellence when no one is watching. Perhaps it is speaking a word of encouragement to someone discouraged. Perhaps it is refusing to participate in corruption, even when it costs you. These are not grand gestures. They are the small, steady light of Christ reflecting through your life.

Your workplace is not a mission field separate from your faith—it is your mission field. Your community is not hostile territory to escape—it is territory where your Father has stationed you as a living witness.

Lord, make my life a clear reflection of Your character in all I do this week.