This morning, I was reminded of a time a number of years back when my quiet time was interrupted by one of our dogs.
Cody was very upset and barking protectively as he stood at the back door. Not something I wanted at 3:15, especially since Dave was still sleeping. I jumped up to see what was causing Cody so much distress and there it was – another dog at the back door. He was staring Cody in the face! Before I could get to Cody, he charged the door and hit it with his nose as he was trying to get out.
I grabbed Cody and calmed him down, as I reached up to turn on the back porch light and make the dog on the patio disappear. Did I mention that our backyard was walled and there’s no way anything could get in. The other dog Cody saw at the back door was nothing more than his own reflection in the sliding glass door.
Turning on the light, reduced the reflection and life was calm!
Now as you smile or think what a dumb dog, let me ask you this, have you ever been bothered by things in the dark? Out camping when there are no lights but the camp fire and you hear a noise in the brush, walking across a dark parking lot, going through a darkened tunnel, or all by yourself in a strange place with little or no light? Ever been afraid and defensive? Me neither!
The enemy, our enemy, would like us to be afraid of the dark. The dark could be illness, financial pressure, relationship problems, world crises, depression and loneliness. Jesus has come to dispel the darkness and lead us by His light.
“But you are God’s chosen and special people. You are a group of royal priests and a holy nation. God has brought you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Now you must tell all the wonderful things that he has done.” I Peter 2:9 CEV
“And everyone who has seen me has seen the one who sent me. 46 I am the light that has come into the world. No one who has faith in me will stay in the dark.” John 12:45-46 CEV
“You used to be like people living in the dark, but now you are people of the light because you belong to the Lord. So act like people of the light 9 and make your light shine. Be good and honest and truthful, 10 as you try to please the Lord. ” Ephesians 5:8-10 CEV
I’m not sure what “dark” thing is trying to invade your life today but know this – when the light switch (God’s word and His presence) is turned on, it dispels the darkness, and you can walk safely in the light.
“Your word is a lamp that gives light wherever I walk.” Psalm 119:105 CEV