But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. – 1 John 1:7
Sometimes I get teased about my preference to sleep in a completely dark room. Since I go to work in the wee hours of the morning, I want to make sure I have enough sleep at night, so I block out all sources of light in my room. It is much easier for me to sleep when it is totally dark.
This fact is also true in a spiritual sense—it is easier to be spiritually asleep when the light of the Gospel is dim. Jesus commented that sinners love darkness more than light because their deeds are evil (John 3:19). The light points out sin in their lives, causing shame and guilt, so they prefer to stay in the “dark” where they can sleep undisturbed. What a joy it is when one turns and walks toward God’s light!
The Bible says that when we are saved, we are awakened from the dead and Christ gives us light (Ephesians 5:14). Walking in the light will include leading a life of holiness and purity; we will resemble God in our character and behavior. Then, instead of avoiding the light, we will come toward it! We do that by applying ourselves to studying God’s Word, having fellowship with the saints of God, and spending time in prayer with Him. The light becomes brighter as we follow His commandments, and the more light there is in our lives, the harder it becomes to doze off spiritually.
Our key verse points out two of the blessings of walking in God’s light: salvation from sin and fellowship with the people of God. There are many more besides! If we are in the light, we can face each day knowing He is in control. We can trust that He knows what is best for us. Walking in the light is the way to reach our heavenly goal.
A favorite old-time hymn says:
When we walk with the Lord, in the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way!
While we do His good will, He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.
Today, let’s be sure that we are living in the “light of His Word.”