It Can Be Challenging To Be A Light In A Dark World

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Matthew 5:14 (NIV) 

There is so much darkness and negativity in the world that it can be a full-time job to not get caught up and carried away by it. Yet Jesus wants us to be a light in this dark world, and the light of Christ that comes through us is needed badly.  

Have a sincere desire to serve God and mankind, and stop doubting, stop thinking negatively. Simply start living by faith, pray earnestly and humbly, and get into the habit of looking expectantly for the best. –Norman Vincent Peale 

Staying positive in a negative world is an ongoing challenge that we are going to need the Lord's help in performing. We are surrounded by negative news, toxic politics, and emphasis on hate and darkness instead of love and light. The only thing that can overcome hate is love, not more hate. And the only thing that overcome darkness is light, not more darkness. 

If we could strip back the nonsense in this world, the prejudices, the antagonism, the bitterness and wrath, and instead see people as they truly are—weak sinners in need of a loving God—we could transform this world through humility and love. Kindness could do so much if we allowed the light of Jesus' love to shine through our lives. 

Sometimes we are so surrounded by the ugly things of life and our own troubles that we cannot see beyond our nose. Yet if we would only look up, recognize the love that God has for each and every one of us, the stranger could be seen as a brother and sister, a fellow traveler on the difficult road of life. One who needs love and kindness, tenderness and mercy, and above all: The Father's Love to see them through. 

When you find yourself surrounded by darkness, weighed down by the cares of this world, reach out to God and receive His love and mercy. Then share that same love and mercy with those around you.  

Prayer: Dear Lord, each day is an opportunity. We can look beyond this dark world and its many sources of pain and trouble to find strength and light through your love. Or we can give in to the dark and be overcome by it--God forbid! Pick us up Lord, clean off the filth, and enable us to shine like the lights you destined us to be. Amen. 

Karlton Douglas 

Copyright 2017