It’s impossible to overstate the importance of light. Scripture says, “…everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible” (Ephesians 5:13-14). When we see clouds in the sky, it’s because the sun is shining behind them. When we walk in shadow, it is because there’s light somewhere. We can’t always whisk away whatever’s obstructing the light, but we can choose to focus our attention on the light itself.
It’s all a matter of training our eyes…and our hearts. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12); we are called to “live as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8). When our eyes are steadfastly fixed on Christ, we are supported as firmly as Peter was when he walked across the water. It’s when we focus on our problems instead of on Him that we begin to sink (Matthew 14:30).
Ready to improve your ability to see the light? The first step is to recognize it doesn’t always shine in the way we expect. I’ve sometimes expected Christ’s light to be a bright neon sign blinking “This Way!” Other times I’ve thought the “lamp to my feet” (Psalm 119:105) ought to brighten up the darkness like stage lights. It doesn’t always work that way! We can overlook the light God has put in our path because we’re concentrating on something else.
Imagine trying to cross a pitch-black room that you know is strewn with obstacles. How much light would you need to get to the other side? The beam of a tiny penlight would be enough. Sometimes smaller is better; we focus on it more intently—and are thankful for its ability to guide us!
If you struggle to focus on the light when you’re faced with darkness, it’s good to get in the habit of asking yourself three simple questions:
1. How can I use this situation to draw closer to God?
In every difficulty, we can either move nearer to our Lord or pull away. Direct your heart “into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance” (2 Thessalonians 3:5), and you will begin to see past the clouds to the sun beyond.
2. How can I become a better person through this?
Every difficulty brings the possibility of personal growth. Look for the ways you may be strengthened, and appreciate them!
3. How else can I look at this?
Each cross we bear is part of the road to glory. Embrace your trials and use them to help you follow Christ. “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23).
Scripture tells us that our good deeds should not only glorify God—they should cause others to glorify Him as well! The gifts we have been given are like mirrors, to be used so that the light in us is reflected toward God. “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).You and I can point people to God. We can illuminate their lives simply by keeping our own eyes keenly fixed on the Light of the World, and reflecting Him in all we do.
“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light” (Matthew 6:22). Let’s all pray for 20/20 spiritual vision!
