Arise, shine; for your light has come, and Yahweh's glory has risen on you. For, behold, darkness will cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but Yahweh will arise on you, and his glory shall be seen on you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. Isaiah 60:1-3 WEB.

Nightfall came faster than I was anticipating. It was a black night as I made my way through the swamp toward home. As a young boy growing up in the country, I spent a lot of my time exploring the woods. Usually, the moon would be out, but on this night, the sky was overcast. Thick fog and dense trees above me snuffed out what little light remained, and I had brought no light with me. I would have loved to have even had a candle.

I was around thirteen years old at the time. The eerie sounds of frogs, crickets, and whatever that was lurking behind me were terrifying. Getting out of the woods seemed to take an eternity, but eventually, I saw the light of home appear in the distance. It was the most welcoming sight, and I was so happy to finally see it.

A small candle sitting in the sunlight at midday is hardly noticeable. If you back away even a few feet, it will begin to blend in with the surroundings and the light of the sun. It would seem insignificant, like there was nothing to be seen there. But if you were to look at that same candle in black darkness, then it would shine as if it was sent by God.

As this world grows darker and darker, the spiritual light that you have will shine brighter and brighter to those around you. To some people, you are the only light they will ever see, and God will use you to draw them. You may think that your light is only a tiny flicker. Yet, to someone in total darkness, you may be the most welcoming sight they have ever seen. You carry the word of God that sets people free from the darkness. So keep that fire stoked, for it is going to be needed.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, please let me carry Your fire. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and let me be a lighthouse to those in the darkness. Put Your words in my heart and bring all things to my remembrance. Speak to me and through me. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen!

Note: For those who would like to join us, today we will be hosting our RHM Live Online church service. This is a special time of interactive worship, prayer, fellowship and an inspiring message. All are welcome! The service starts at 10am EST. Here is the link to join: RHM Live. As always, if you have a prayer need, we are here for you! We and the prayer team are ready to lift you up at our private prayer page: RHM Prayer Network.