Light pierces the darkness. Light isn’t necessary in a place where it is already illuminated. Jesus said, “ I am the light of the world.” Why would he need to bring His light if the world was already radiant?
I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:5
God did not create light in us so that we would selfishly keep ourselves warm and all bundled up in the certainty of His truth and our future. Absolutely not! But, I confess there are times, I would rather ‘hide my light under a bowl” and plant myself where the dark dare not go.
We are chosen, holy, and dearly loved. We are made in His image, and generously given the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit to pierce the darkness of lost souls. We are to shine the light that paves the way to the only “light of the world.” To reflect the only and perfect hope of the One who died for us and sanctifies us.
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, giving light to everyone in the house. In the same way let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10
In my world, there are often open doors of darkness, seeking light to enter the pain and confusion of illness and death. Some doors open which scream out commonly believed lies which the enemy has cleverly cloaked as truth. Some doors of darkness called gossip, those delicious morsels that have the power to destroy others.
The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the in most parts. Proverbs 18:8
My heavenly assignment is to enter the door of darkness with boldness and certainty. I am to put on the armor of God that protects me and enables me to pierce that door of darkness with God’s truth.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. Ephesians 6:10-11
Therefore brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58
I am ashamed to write that there are there times when I shrivel up and slam that door shut. I often cringe away from the enemy which I was directed not to do.
I selfishly and purposely withhold starting a conversation that has the potential to pry open the door of darkness. The enemy uses fear, people-pleasing and my agenda to place a barrier to my obedience. He uses those weapons because I have not put oil in my lamp, batteries in my soul, or gas in my spiritual tank.
Without Him, I can do nothing. A flashlight, candle, or oil lamp all need a source of energy or power. They do not create their lumens; they depend solely on another source, separate from themselves. As we are not our light creators, we must have and utilize the provision of the Holy Spirit which enables us to pierce the darkness surrounding us.
As we are unable to be our source, in what ways, what tools, practices, and habits can we embrace and expand our ability to shine a light on this dark world? What is the energizer bunny that will empower us to be a reflection of God’s great light?
Scripture points and directs us to fellowship, worship, prayer, and time invested in communion with our Savior. These purposeful behaviors, and many others, will enable the renewing of our hearts and minds which will release the ability to demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit, apart from me you can do nothing.”
John 15:5
Jesus said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Mathew 19:26 Jesus was responding to his disciple’s questions regarding who can enter the kingdom of heaven, but I hold this truth to mean “all things.” All things including my avoidance and cowardice move toward The open doors of darkness I encounter. His armor, His Spirit, His word and spiritual disciplines have the power to instill in me urgency in piercing the darkness with His light.
Shalom and blessings my friends,
Karen
For Reflection:
What are the enemy’s weapons of choice he uses against you? What temptations, and fears are holding you back from shining the light God has generously given? What armor are you missing that would empower you to fight off those weapons?
Well said Karen!