Tag: Light in Darkness

October 7, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Hidden Truth Revealed

Opening Verse

“For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.” (Luke 8:17, KJV)

Introduction

Life often presents situations that seem stable and secure. However, beneath the surface, issues may be festering, hidden from plain sight. It’s easy to overlook these subtle signs, but God calls us to be discerning and seek the truth. We are reminded that while some things may be concealed, nothing remains hidden forever. In time, the truth always comes to light.

Devotional Story

A woman named Lisa had been working at a company for many years. On the outside, everything seemed perfect—her job was stable, and her coworkers appeared friendly. But Lisa began to feel a deep unrest in her spirit. Something was off, but she couldn’t quite figure out what it was. Instead of ignoring this inner prompting, she started to pray for wisdom and clarity.

As time went on, Lisa discovered that some of her colleagues were involved in unethical practices that were being hidden from the leadership team. It became clear that what seemed like a secure environment was actually quite fragile. Trusting God’s guidance, Lisa approached the situation carefully and brought the truth to light. While this caused an initial disruption, it led to healing and restoration in the workplace.

What This Means

We often go through life trusting that things are fine, only to discover later that there are hidden issues. God calls us to seek His wisdom in these moments. When we face situations that seem uncertain or uneasy, it’s crucial to trust that He will reveal the truth in His time. Protect what matters most, whether it be relationships, your integrity, or your faith. Remember, God brings all things to light, and He works all things for good.

Think About This

Are there situations in your life that seem stable, but deep down you feel unsettled? Are you willing to ask God for discernment, trusting Him to reveal hidden truths in His perfect time?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to discern the things that are hidden beneath the surface. Give me the wisdom to seek Your truth and the courage to act on what You reveal. Help me protect the things You have given me and trust that, in time, You will bring all things to light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7, KJV)

October 12, 2023 Christian Perspective Post a Comment

Shining Light on Halloween: A Christian Perspective

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

Introduction

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, Halloween is a celebration that looms large on the calendar. While it may evoke thoughts of candy and costumes for some, for many Christians it triggers a reflex to denounce the holiday as demonic or evil. In the midst of this quick judgement, we may be overlooking an opportune moment to shine our light in the darkness and serve God.

Christian Perspective

Imagine a devout Christian family that has always avoided Halloween, cautioning their children and friends about the day’s supposed evil origins. They are quick to label it as demonic, recalling verses about avoiding the appearance of evil.
“Abstain from all appearance of evil.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:22 (KJV)
One year, however, they decide to approach it differently. Instead of closing their doors and shunning the celebration, they opt to be a light in the darkness. They dress up as their favorite Biblical characters, not to join in the revelry, but to ignite meaningful conversations. They also prepare goodie bags, but these are no ordinary treats. Inside each bag, along with candy, is a small Bible verse or a spiritual message. As they distribute the bags, the conversations that ensue are enlightening. Children ask about their costumes, leading to stories from the Bible. Parents engage in dialogue about the true meaning of good and evil, light and darkness.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

Conclusion

Being a Christian does not mean we avoid places or situations that are perceived as dark or evil. On the contrary, it’s about being the light that dispels the darkness. Jesus himself set this example when he went to the woman at the well, a place and situation where many would not expect to find a prophet.
“Then the woman of Samaria said unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.” – John 4:9 (KJV)

Faith Notes

Before we rush to label Halloween as a holiday contrary to Christian values, let’s pause and remember the model Jesus set for us: one of inclusion, love, and engagement. Much like how Jesus interacted with those society marginalized, Halloween offers an opportunity to connect with neighbors and community members in a unique way. Matthew 6:9 advises us:
“After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.”
The call to hallow God’s name is a call to recognize and glorify His divine nature in all circumstances—even during Halloween.
“Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:21 (KJV)
Let us seize occasions like Halloween to let our light shine even brighter, reaching out to our communities in acts of kindness, love, and understanding. Engage in meaningful dialogue, perhaps even turn the night into an outreach opportunity. Our methods may be unconventional, but their impact can be eternally significant.
“The light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.” John 1:5 (KJV)
In a world that often seems engulfed in darkness, remember that light is the most effective tool for dispelling it. May we use Halloween as an occasion to bring that divine light into our communities, always honoring the principle of “Hallowed be thy name.”