Guarded by the Light: Standing Firm in The Darkness

The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it, (John 1:5).

Jesus is the Light of the World, offering hope and reassurance to all who respond to and follow the gospel of Christ. As believers, we are covered by the light of Christ and the Holy Spirit who lives within us. It is difficult for us to comprehend those who do not respond to Jesus and continue to live in darkness.

We must fully understand the power of darkness in this world and stay vigilant to protect ourselves. When we put ourselves in positions or places that let darkness in, we allow the light of Christ within us to be extinguished. Darkness can lurk in the most unlikely places. We must always be on guard, ready to guard our hearts and our minds from those who oppose the Gospel of Christ; do not be fooled into thinking that this darkness is not sitting next to you with a Bible open. We must always be on guard. Guard our hearts and our minds from the powers of this world. Ephesians 2:12 tells us, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realm.”

Darkness, or sin, can enter our lives, shrinking back just enough that the light cannot touch it; we make excuses for it and keep letting it sit in the corner, waiting. Stop making excuses, and actively resist sin by leaning into the full power of Jesus, who showers you with light. Bring sin into the open; stop letting it sit in the corner of your life; stop trying to ignore the darkness. Turn on the light of Christ and remain steadfast in God's Word. This may mean leaving behind relationships, habits, and strongholds.

Ephesians 5:8, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of the light.”

Ephesians 5:11, “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”

Ephesians 5:13-14, “But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said: 'Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.'” 

While we are called to be on guard, we are not called to judge or accuse; we are to act as children of the Light, covered in Christ, full of love, mercy, and humility. Let Christ's light shine brightly, expelling the darkness and shining the light of truth around you.

Prayer: Father, cover us with Your light; fill us. Let our words, our actions, and our thoughts magnify You. Let us not be complacent, Father, but always watchful and mindful of the darkness surrounding us. Father, we rest on the assurance that You have conquered sin and death, and overcome the darkness. In Jesus name, Amen