And the Light shines on in the darkness, for the darkness has never overpowered it [put it out or absorbed it or appropriated it, and is unreceptive to it]. John 1:5 AMPC
How do we define 'light'? One says it is 'the natural agent that stimulates sight and makes things visible' . It is called a natural agent, which produces or is used for obtaining specific results. Very quickly, you see that you really cannot define the origin or source of light, but you can't deny its existence, reach or impact. You cannot lay a finger on how it is produced, yet when it exists, it is almost taken for granted. This is the amazing thing about light in today's extract: it is defined from the perspective of a person, and that can only be Jesus, the Light of the world. Light was spoken into existence by God at creation, and it was by the essence of light Himself that God made the whole earth.
And then there is darkness, which is also defined as 'the partial or total absence of light.' Did you see that even darkness is defined from the perspective of light? It is clear that anything that does not fully portray light in its totality is courting darkness. If I am to bring this home, it means that I cannot successfully combine elements of light and darkness together at the same time, in the same place and in the same life. It also means that the smallest sliver of light makes an impact on the thickest darkness. As a natural agent, it is the place of light to shine, no matter how thick the darkness is. Is my life a platform from which this light can shine out to the world?
This question is very important, considering the realities on earth. By sin, the entire world is now in the grip of darkness. However, no matter how bad it is, there is also the reality of God, his nature and his presence. By sin, man chose darkness, but even at the scene of man's greatest crime, the light of God was revealed. As man embraced darkness, God was already shining the light of the seed of the woman. By God's nature and power, nothing can stop that which he institutes. No matter how long the night is, it is followed by the morning, before another night. It will not be the same night, but you will always get the same light.
No matter how hard the devil fights, he is only prolonging his day of reckoning, as well as his judgment. The extract for today is like an assurance by God that no matter how hard the devil tries, he cannot defeat the light. If I carry the Light, I am unconquerable for the devil. Oh, he all try and distract, deceive and deflate, but God's presence will not desert his own at any time. Darkness cannot put out the light or limit its operation; it is light that chases out darkness. Darkness cannot absorb the light; it is light that dispels darkness. I also note, with a sense of caution, that darkness cannot respond favourably to light. Both are on opposite ends of the spectrum, parallel lines that can never meet, no matter how far you draw them.
As we have seen, light is not dependant on darkness, but is visible to all, no matter where I am located. That is the warning for me: darkness leads to eternal separation from God. God is light, and he invites me to take hold of him so I can enjoy all that he is and offers. I cannot keep a foot in the light and the other in darkness. There is really no fence to sit on, and there is no middle ground to bet on. One day, all of us will be judged by the light, and all the things done and said in secret will be laid bare before God. Am I ready for the light to reveal my life's secrets? Can they stand the test of the light of God? Remember, eternity is at stake. I cannot afford to be on the wrong side. God's time of favour is here.
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