Seeing through the dark
“I lift my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (NIV) Psalm 121:1-2
The “dark” in the title stands for difficulties and disappointments in our lives. Therefore, seeing through the dark means looking beyond the difficult and disappointing times to see better and greater times ahead.
As Christians, difficult and disappointing times are bound to come our way but it is very necessary not to allow these times to put us down forever because we do not have a spirit of timidity and fear but a spirit of confidence (Romans 8:15-17). Seeing through the dark requires four important things to do on our part.
The first is total dependence on God. Mortal beings as we are, we require the help of the Immortal One (God) to direct our ways. In difficult and disappointing times, we find refuge in Him alone. His word gives comfort and urges us on. In all times, both good and bad, He is our hope, our comforter, our joy and our peace (Romans 15:13). You need Him more than ever if you ever want to see through the dark.
Seeing through the dark requires patience. When the light in your room suddenly goes off, the entire room goes dark and you see nothing. However, after some few minutes, your eyes adjust to the darkness and you can find your way slightly around. In difficult and disappointing times, we need patience. Patience will help us buy some time to think through our difficulties and try to find the causes and pray for possible solutions. Sometimes, patience is all we require to move that mountain in our way (Romans 12:12). In seeking the Lord’s face through prayers in our tribulations, we require patience because answers may not come immediately.
The third ingredient required in seeing through the dark is courage. It is important to ask God for courage because when difficult times come, we tend to lack the strength and courage to keep going (Deuteronomy 31:8). Be reminded that our God is right behind us and He will never forsake us so we need to get up and keep moving.
Lastly, we require a heart of gratitude. In all situations, we need to give thanks to the almighty God (Philippians 4:6, Colossians 4:2). A good biblical example can be found in Acts 16:16-40. In the passage, Paul and Silas were attacked, stripped and beaten with rods before thrown behind bars but instead of lamenting they glorified God. Yes, it may not make sense to be grateful in difficult and disappointing times but there is much to be grateful for. Look within and be thankful for the little you have. A child who is grateful for a few will be blessed with much (see Matthew 25:14-30).
May God help you through any form of difficulty you may be going through. May His face shine on you and put back that smile on your face. God bless you.