Light Exposes Darkness
“For there is nothing hidden
that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or
brought out into the open.” –
Luke 8:17
But their evil intentions will be
exposed when the light shines on them. – Ephesians 5:13 (NLT)
Each of us has darkness that lies inside of us. We
pretend it’s not there. We ignore the truths rather than face it and let light
destroy it. But in the end, it still finds a way to reveal itself.
We are sinners. There’s just no way to get past that
on this earth. We can’t ever be good enough, wise enough, blameless enough, to
enter God’s Presence on our own. That’s why we so desperately need Jesus.
We try to pretend that we’re good enough. God knows our
hearts. He knows we’re trying. Except we somehow find a way to pick and choose
where we’ll do better and where we’ll keep on being who we are.
Sometimes the sin is great. Sometimes the sin is
gathered together with many parts, none of which seem too bad, until the great
multitude reveals a pattern of darkness. We don’t blame ourselves. It’s this
society, this world, this media, that leads us to things we wouldn’t otherwise
do, see, or hear.
Except we are to blame. We make choices, then attempt
to justify ourselves. We allow our sin nature to control us and that, in turn,
leads us places we never really intended to go.
It’s the excuse pattern that allows us to fudge a
little here or a little there. It’s that wink that lets us think we’re sliding
by without any consequences for doing what we know is wrong.
I’m always amazed at how we do what we know is wrong.
We watch a movie or television show that we know has inappropriate content. We
blame Hollywood for our choice. We listen to music with lyrics that idolize
drinking and wild parties and sex without marriage and we blame the record
labels. We do whatever we can to get that raise, even if it means telling lies
or putting someone else down. It’s a game we didn’t create but we participate
in it just the same.
After all, it’s all about us. It’s about what we want.
It’s about what’s best for us and for our family. It’s about making choices
that entertain us and help us get ahead. It’s about looking at the world through
eyes that only see what we want them to see.
Except the light has a way of penetrating through the darkness,
exposing the heart of an issue. It reveals our true motives. The light tells
the world, and us right along with it, what we truly believe. What do you
believe?
Do you truly believe God loves everyone? Then why do
you put others down in a vain attempt to build yourself up?
Do you truly believe all people are equal? Then why do
you think you’re better than people of other nationalities?
Do you truly believe things don’t matter? Then why do
you race to keep up with or surpass the things your friends and family
purchase?
The light exposes darkness. It tells the real story of
your values and your faith.
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