John 1:5, Colossians 1:11-14, John 3:16-17, Jer 29:11, Phil 4:6, 1 John 4:4

Jeff Cutts

It has been getting darker as it always does at this time of the year in the UK. Leading up to Christmas more and more houses are adorned with sparkling and flashing lights, fires are lit, bright colours are used, all to lighten the darkness and brighten our mood. We have a large flashing star on the front of our house. It beckons me home at the end of the day and reminds me to pray that I may become a wise man.

Of course our understanding of light and darkness is more than the sparkle. Most people recognize the conflict between good and evil. It is reflected in most of the stories we tell, the films and pantomimes we see and books we read; light versus darkness and good verses evil.

Looking at the world around us you may think that it is getting spiritually darker, but do not be under the misconception that this is an equal fight. Some may think that the power of evil and of good are equal and always fighting for the upper hand, but this is not so. Have you ever seen darkness extinguishing a light? No! Turn on a light and it is the darkness that leaves; even a small light will pierce the darkness.

Into the darkness of this present world Jesus has come. "The Light shines in the darkness and the darkness can never extinguish it!" (John 1:5)

To some it can be looked upon as unscientific or wishful thinking these days, but people who have faith in Jesus the Light of the world can stand secure in that no matter how dark life in this world may appear or become we can be, "strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins." (Colossians 1:11-14)

We can have great hope and walk boldly in the darkness when we know that this world is not our home; we're just walking through. Look to Jesus, the Light of the world and be encouraged in these dark days.

Do you think the Lord's ears are deaf to your prayers?
Do you think your sin is too much for His grace and forgiveness?
Do you think His arm is too short to save you?
Do you think your failure excludes you from His will?

If you feel you are in darkness then hear God's word and come into light!

"For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him". (John 3:16-17)

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jer 29:11)

"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done." (Phil 4:6)

"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (1 John 4:4)