“…You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world.” ~ Matthew 5:14 (MSG)
How dark can dark get? For the most part most of us don’t know that because we are rarely in total darkness. There are the sun, moon and stars that put off light in nature. Then there is electricity that produces various types of lighting for us. We realize how dependent we are on electricity for light when the power goes out and we continue to routinely flip switches although we know the power is out. In those instances we have generators, candles, flashlights, kerosene lamps, etc.
Those who explore caves describe the unbelievable blackness and darkness underground. Without the lamps on their helmets they are unable to see their hand in front of their face.
Being in an underground cave all alone without any light source, may come close to giving a very descriptive picture of the reality of the overwhelming blackness and darkness experienced by those who suffer. They need those who will be a source of light shining in their darkness.
“…Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” ~ Matthew 5:16 (NAS)
“Never underestimate small offerings…Think of them as candles, and while we may not be able to light the world or fix someone else’s life, we can offer hope, which on its own creates quite a blaze.” — Patsy Clairmont
Reflections on ALONE IN THE DARK
When faced with the pain of someone we care about, we often panic because we feel like we should do something to fix their problem or condition. When the problem is beyond our control, we often may avoid them because we feel so helpless and we think that, if we cannot fix their problem, then there is nothing we can do for them. We couldn’t be more wrong. More than likely, this person already knows that nothing can change their situation. They aren’t looking for a fix. They are just looking for hope. As Patsy Clairmont said, hope “creates quite a blaze.”
Satan fools us into thinking that prayer is an inconsequential response to situations beyond our control when actually the opposite is true. We want to Do something…something physical that someone can see or touch or experience in a tangible way when actually what they need more than anything else is prayer. Only God can breathe lasting hope into a hopeless situation. He can change our perspective. He is the One Who can do “amazingly abundantly above what we can ask or think…” Ephesians 3:20 (NASB)
Prayer and a listening ear are what hurting people who feel alone need. They need us to pray for them and with them. Instead of thinking that all we can do is pray and listen, we need to realize that prayer and the time to share their burdens is what they really need anyway, and those are the actions that God has already enabled us to do.
Who has God placed in your life that needs His hope shared with them today?
Will you be God’s candle in their darkness?
PRAYER for the Hurting Person:
Lord,
Please shine Your light into this person’s life and help them know how much You care for them. May your Holy Spirit wrap them in the blanket of Your grace and mercy. May Your word provide comfort as they read it. May others reach into their darkness and lift them up into Your light. Give them hope for brighter and lighter times ahead.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
PRAYER for the Helper:
Lord,
Thank You for being the Light of the world. Thank you for bringing Your light into my world. Help me to keep my eyes open for the ways that You are working in my life so that Your light can shine through me into the lives around me that have been darkened with pain. Help me to be aware of Your leading and to watch for opportunities that You bring into my life to share Your love and hope with others. May You shine through me today.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
