In the Dark

Have you ever wondered why it seems that the longer you remain in the dark, the clearer things become? It is awesome how God causes this to be so in the natural as well as in the spiritual.

I remember many times as a child being afraid of the dark. My father would say, "Do not be afraid. Just keep looking and you will begin to see." That reminds me of how eloquently our Heavenly Father says the same thing:

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1 KJV

When I reflect on the course of my life, I find I gain the most spiritual insight during times of deep despair. Not only do I learn how faithful God is, but I also learn how and why He orchestrates these situations.

During one of my most desolate times, I learned exactly what these Scriptures mean.

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that Love God, to them who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 KJV

"In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18 KJV

I have often wondered, "Lord, why is there so much pain? Why must I feel the agony of rejection and loss?" Through my crying out to God, I heard His voice reminding me of a prayer I whispered years ago but had forgotten.

He said, "My child, remember you asked Me to show you those who were broken hearted and hurting?"

"Yes," I cried.

"How can you minister to them unless you have felt their pain?"

At that moment, the tears of sadness turned to tears of joy, because in this dark place, I was able to see the light!

God is a loving and merciful Father, and everything we encounter in our lives is because of His love. It causes us to grab hold of Him, exercise our faith, and mature into vessels fit for His service. Suddenly, I realized He answered my prayer and was equipping me to do the work I requested so long ago!

Whenever you find yourself in the dark, do not be afraid. Remember this:

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." Psalm 119:105 KJV

God wants to use us to light the pathway for others in darkness so they can find their way to Him.

"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

When you are walking through a dark time in your life, be encouraged by this verse:

"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." 1 Peter 2:9 KJV

Being in the dark is not a bad thing; it can be a time to grow in God, a time to learn to trust God, and a time to be thankful for all God has done for us. This will give us compassion for others as God shows them the light in their darkness.

Copyright © 2006 Barbara Godfrey. Used by permission.