A Light Problem

Scripture – John 3:19-21: This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done through God.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) To me, this describes perfectly why people give Christians a hard time. As we live faithfully, simply living as we think Christ would have us live, we reflect His light around us. We’re not judging anyone. At the same time, our living illuminates the sin other people might have. And they don’t want to see that. The fullness we have in Christ sometimes highlights the emptiness people may have in their own lives. The peace with which we live may be a stark contrast to the turmoil and anxiety in their lives. Darkness covers what’s wrong. If I can’t see it, I can easily ignore it. Light always overcomes darkness.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will live faithfully today. And if my behavior leads to discomfort for other people and pressure from them for me to act differently, I will not be dissuaded.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please give me a humble heart so I don’t try to make others uncomfortable. Help me simply live as you want this day. Let me be a faithful bearer of your light. Remind me that your light will bring the judgment. May it not come from my attitude and heart.