Lyrics
Verse 1
Dull as dirt you can't assert
The kinda light that might persuade
A strict dictator to retire
Fire the army, teach the poor origami
The truth is in the proof is when
You hear your heart start asking
What's my motivation?
And try as you may, there is no way
To explain the kinda change
That would make an Eskimo renounce fur
That would make a vegetarian barbecue hamster
Unless you can trace this about-face to a certain sign
Chorus
Shine
Make 'em wonder whatcha got
Make 'em wish that they were not
On the outside looking bored
Shine
Let it shine before all men
Let 'em see good works and then
Let 'em glorify the lord
Verse 2
Out of the shaker and onto the plate
It isn't karma it sure ain't fate
That would make a deadhead sell his van
That would make a schizophrenic turn in his crayons
Oprah freaks and science seeks
A rationale that shall excuse this strange behavior
When you let it shine
You will inspire the kind of entire turnaround
That would make a bouncer take ballet
Even bouncers who aren't happy
But out of the glare
With nowhere to turn
You ain't gonna learn it on "What's My Line?"
Chorus
Shine
Make 'em wonder whatcha got
Make 'em wish that they were not
on the outside looking bored
Shine
Let it shine before all men
Let 'em see good works and then
Let 'em glorify the lord
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
The song uses exaggerated, comic examples of changed behavior to explore the visible effect of Christian faith. Its repeated call to “shine” moves the focus from private profession to conduct that makes others notice a genuine transformation. The unusual images are playful, but the central claim is serious: such change cannot be explained by fate, social pressure, or a convenient rationale. It points beyond the person to the source of new life.
The chorus directly echoes Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:16. Good works are not presented as a way to attract glory to the individual; they are meant to lead observers to glorify the Father. The lyric therefore joins witness and discipleship, suggesting that faith becomes credible when it produces a recognizable about-face. Its energetic humor supports a clear biblical theme: light is seen through action, and changed character can prompt people outside the faith to ask what caused the difference.
Related Scripture
- Matthew 5:16 Jesus commands his followers to let their light shine so others see good works and glorify the Father.
- Philippians 2:15 Paul describes believers as shining like stars while living faithfully in the world.
- 2 Corinthians 5:17 Paul describes life in Christ as a new creation in which the old has passed away.