Light in the Dark

Have you ever stubbed your toe in the dark? It’s the worst. But it makes such a strong point—when we can’t see, we stumble. That’s why light is so powerful. And not just the kind that flips on with a switch. Today we’re talking about how Jesus is the light in the dark places—whether it’s confusion, grief, fear, or just a foggy day in life.

The light changes everything.

Our scripture for today is John 11:9–10 (NLT) —“Jesus replied, ‘There are twelve hours of daylight every day. During the day people can walk safely. They can see because they have the light of this world. But at night there is danger of stumbling because they have no light.’”

We all go through dark patches—some last a minute, some last a season. But the promise of John 11 is that the Light is always with us. Let’s explore how we recognize those dark spots and what to do when we’re in them.

We’ve all gone for days without power after a hurricane. We use candles and flashlights to help guide us, but we still bump into things. That’s what life feels like without direction or peace. But the good news? Jesus doesn’t flicker. He’s steady even when the world shuts down.

Sometimes it’s not full-on darkness that trips us up—it’s just foggy. And man, it’s hard to drive in thick fog at night. There’s so much to pay attention to, but not enough clarity.

Or how about standing in the kitchen wondering what’s for dinner—and suddenly you’re questioning your whole day? Maybe you’re replaying an entire conversation you had, thinking about every detail, hoping you didn’t make too many mistakes. If you did, you hope not to let those consume you. You learn, and you move forward.

Let’s talk about how to let the Light guide us through the daily haze.

Sometimes we can’t see a thing in front of us. It can be a time of real uncertainty and confusion. But when you’re with someone you trust, you grab their hand and follow. God is there, asking us to grab His hand.

When we walk with the Light, even the darkest valleys have a path forward.

Jesus invites us to trust that He’s the light and guide we need.

Has there been a time when God called you out of where you were into something uncertain? Looking back—or maybe you're in that season right now—how has it grown your faith, knowing that God is the one who knows the path?

Flipping the switch—letting the Light in—is more than just hoping for better days. It’s choosing to let Jesus brighten your heart, your mood, and your perspective.

Ever walked into a room in the morning, pulled open the curtains, and felt instant joy? The Light rushed in! That’s how it feels to let Jesus into a situation we’ve been keeping closed off. Even a crack of Light makes a difference.

God often shines His light through other people as well —a phone call, a smile from a stranger, someone bringing you dinner when you’re too tired to cook. We can also be that light for someone else. Never underestimate your glow!

(John 11:9–10 again for emphasis.)

Years ago, my husband and I were outside in the dark, and I was holding the flashlight while he worked on something. At one point, I shined the light out into our backyard, and I felt like God was telling me: You can see everything in the light, but beyond the light, there’s more that I am working on.

Jesus is the light. He shows us exactly what we need to see when we need to see it. But that doesn’t mean He isn’t working beyond what we can see. Darkness will always be around, but Light surpasses the dark and opens our eyes to clarity when it’s time.

Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, heartbreak, or just feeling lost—let the Light do the work. Darkness doesn’t win when Light is present.

We’re not just meant to live in the Light—we’re meant to shine it. Jesus lights our path, yes, but He also calls us to reflect His light to the world around us.

Let’s talk about becoming that warm glow in a dim world.

You don’t have to shout to shine. Think of a nightlight—it doesn’t fill the room, but it gives enough peace to sleep soundly. Your kindness, your patience, your joy—that’s your light.

Some days, our bulb just flickers. And that’s okay. Sometimes the best thing we can do is sit in God’s presence and let Him recharge us. Don’t feel guilty for feeling tired. Just plug back in.

And on the flip side—if we’re trying to draw attention to ourselves, that shouldn’t be our intention. A spotlight makes it about us. But a lamp helps others see where they’re going.

Let’s be people who point the way, not hog the glow. Whether it’s at work, at home, or at the grocery store, your light matters.

John 11:9–10 (NLT) —“Jesus replied, ‘There are twelve hours of daylight every day. During the day people can walk safely. They can see because they have the light of this world. But at night there is danger of stumbling because they have no light.’”

When life feels dark, we don’t have to stumble around wondering where to go. Jesus gave us the Light—He is the Light. So, whether you’re in a bright season or a shadowy one, trust that His light will lead you step by step. And don’t forget—you’ve got light inside you too.

Jesus said we are the light of the world. That means wherever you go today—Target, the DMV, your kid’s school—you carry something powerful.

Shine with kindness. Shine with grace. Shine with joy. The world needs it.

Let it shine today.