It’s a pleasure to be back on the Father and Son Dialogue, broadcasting live from Barcelona! Today, I’m discussing an important topic: what it means to let your light shine. You see, I often receive feedback suggesting that being open about my successes comes across as arrogant or prideful. Some believe that talking about success openly is incompatible with humility, and that keeping a low profile is the true mark of modesty.
To address this, let’s look at what it actually means to “let your light shine.” This is not arrogance; it’s about being true to who you are. The Bible calls us to “let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” When we allow our achievements, skills, and experiences to be visible, we give others permission to strive for greatness. Hiding our talents, on the other hand, doesn’t serve anyone.
But there is a difference between letting your light shine and being arrogant. Arrogance is when you claim things that you’re not or when you inflate your abilities beyond what you’ve truly achieved. True humility, however, does not mean downplaying your strengths. I am a doctor; I am well-known; I have had significant successes and, likewise, numerous failures. Each of these are just facts. Recognizing them doesn’t make me boastful—it grounds me in reality. Just as no one lights a lamp and hides it under a bowl, it’s unwise to hide your achievements or talent.
In our visit here to Barcelona, we’ve interacted with people from all over. Some people I meet abroad don’t expect much from Africans, let alone Nigerians. But I embrace these opportunities to show them otherwise. I’ve found that showing up and letting my light shine—without apology—brings pride to my fellow Nigerians and Africans worldwide. We aren’t defined by narrow views of others, and hiding our accomplishments doesn’t help us or our community.
There are several reasons people hold back. Some fear judgment, witchcraft, or envy from others. They worry that by showing their successes, they’ll draw negativity. But my belief is this: positive energy attracts positive outcomes. By embracing who you are and letting that shine, you push through the negativity, much like light dispels darkness.
Now, timidity is often mistaken for humility, but they are very different. Timidity is a reluctance to embrace one’s potential, while humility is a grounded recognition of that potential without the need to look down on others. Real humility acknowledges both your strength and your weaknesses. I openly talk about my failures. I’ve had to retake exams, face professional setbacks, and even hand over a church I led because it wasn’t the right fit for my path. I share these experiences not because I am flawless, but because these are real parts of my journey.
My advice is this: be willing to shine brightly and be an inspiration. Your achievements can light a path for others, motivating them to pursue their dreams. To the person who says, “Why bring God into everything?” I say that faith is woven into my life’s fabric and informs my values and actions. I’m grounded by my beliefs, which have guided me toward success and resilience. I recognize God’s hand in my life and the world.
Remember, letting your light shine is a conscious choice. It’s not about seeking attention but living out the truth of who you are so others can see and be inspired. Stand tall, share your light, and give others the courage to do the same.
Thank you, as always, for being a part of these discussions.
