Christians are called to influence the world like light and salt — light dispels darkness, and salt preserves and gives flavor. Our lives should point people to God and make the world better through love and truth. Christ's words reveal the purpose of Christian witness: not to draw attention to ourselves but to illuminate the path that leads others to glorify our heavenly Father. The light He speaks of is not harsh or self-righteous, but warm and inviting—like a beacon that guides lost travelers safely home.

We are witnesses not just by words but by lifestyle. Holiness, kindness, and courage are the lamps God uses to light the world. When God's people shine with authentic goodness, others see beyond human effort to divine transformation. A teacher who patiently worked with struggling students, refusing to give up on any child, became famous throughout her school district. Parents would request their children be placed in her classes, not because she was easy, but because she genuinely cared. When asked about her secret, she would simply say, "Every child is precious to God, and they need to know it." Her consistent love became a light that pointed not to her own goodness, but to the God who had filled her heart with His compassion. When God's people shine, others glorify Him, not us.

Ellen G. White urges: “Those who have received the light from Christ are to shed light upon the pathway of others. They are to let their light shine in good works—works of faith and holy obedience.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 307).

She also said: “It is the beauty of holiness, a Christlike spirit, that reveals to the world that we are children of God. The greatest sermon ever preached is a holy life. Every Christian is called to be a living witness for Christ, a light shining in darkness.” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 46).