The Light in the Darkness

Always be full of joy in the Lord; I say it again, rejoice! Let everyone see that you are unselfish and considerate in all you do. Remember that the Lord is coming soon. Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs and don't forget to thank him for his answers. If you do this you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4: 4-7 (TLB)

When Cody Strawser, from Ohio, was young, he slept with the light on in the bathroom down the hall because he was afraid of the dark. The light would shine into his bedroom, and he would hear the calming sound of the fan in the bathroom as he drifted off to sleep, feeling safe. Whenever the bathroom light wasn't on, Cody felt anxious, and it was much harder for him to fall asleep.

When Paul gave the command not to be anxious, he had greater reason to worry than does a kid who is afraid of the dark. He was in prison for proclaiming the gospel to the nations, and he was unsure of what his future held. In Paul's moment of uncertainty, he chose to focus his attention on the One who calls himself the light of the world.

When we aren't sure of where we are headed or how God will lead us, we can choose to trust in Christ and focus on the illuminating grace of his presence. Christ's light can guide us through the often tumultuous waves of life.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to worry less and trust you to guide our steps, in Jesus' name. Amen.