Advent Devotional – December 19

Shine forth with God’s promise

In John 8:12 Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but have the light of life.”

Our good Shepherd was referring in this verse to the light of his truth, of his word, and of  eternal Life. Those who perceive the true light will never walk in spiritual darkness. In  declaring that he is the light of the world, Jesus is claiming that he is the exclusive source of spiritual light and no other spiritual truth is available to mankind.

In Isaiah 42:1-9 we read that God put his spirit upon a messiah. He will send his son to be a servant. Without raising his voice, this gentle Savior is sent into the world of sin to heal, uplift, and encourage. His light would shine through the darkness, giving hope to the hopeless.

Most everyone has experienced darkness in different forms through uncontrollable situations. Sometimes, the darkness can consume our lives. But Jesus brings us a message of hope, and of light. We must hold fast and God’s perfect light will shine forth providing comfort and a path to healing.

As plant life needs light to grow and produce fruit, the same is true of Christians. Our soul hungers for our savior. We must fellowship with other Christians, study the word of God, pray, and repent to strengthen our spiritual needs. As a result, we produce fruit: reaching others in need, letting our light shine, and his light shine through us. We are called to be “lights,” a credible witness in the world showing faith and honoring God.

Look around you. Do you see darkness in need of God’s light? We don’t have to look far to see great need around us. Encourage and uplift one another, allowing God’s light to shine forth in the world of darkness and despair. Be the light, find the need and be fruitful. Shine forth with God’s promise!

Dear Heavenly Father, author of light, guide our paths to those in need. Let them see your love shining through us and stir their souls in the darkness. Help us to feed them spiritually and  assist them in meeting their needs, thereby allowing us to be fruitful for your name’s sake. Amen.

by Sherry Morgan