"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." (Psalm 119:105)
We walk in a world of darkness. It may not always seem this way, but we must remember that darkness doesn’t always present itself as dark. Scripture tells us that even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). In other words, we need a light for this life that not only disperses the darkness but also unmasks the counterfeit light that conceals darkness.
God has graciously given us His Word as a lamp to see this world clearly. His Scripture recalibrates our vision to see the world through the eyes of faith and spirit rather than the flesh. His wisdom helps us know which step ensures stable footing as we journey in darkness. It teaches us how to interpret the terrain ahead so we may faithfully remain on the path of life. It also has the unique ability to help us discern the confusing inner reality of our own hearts (Hebrews 4:12).
Before I can help God’s Word be a lamp in another person’s life, it must first light up my own heart. To steward this light well, I must first experience its piercing effect on my own darkness. I need to know what it feels like to walk the narrow path of light if I'm going to compassionately and effectively help others do the same. I need to experience the blindingly bright difference between the way that intuitively seems right to me and the path that God’s light directs me toward.
Without God’s light, I'm left to receive and offer counterfeit light that cannot last. This light may have the appearance of godliness but lacks its power. May this truth encourage us to seek the light of God's wisdom daily and let it expose the darkness within us. Only then are we well-equipped to help light the path ahead for those we counsel in darkness.
