At All Times, Shine

“Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.”
Ephesians 6:13 NASB

So, it’s a cruel hard world out there. Ephesians 6:12 tells us so. And, unfortunately, darkness is not relegated to a specific day of the year when demons and goblins are invited to roam freely, trying to scare the life out of unsuspecting humans. No, it lurks about 24/7 seeking every opportunity to snuff out your lights.

We see it rear it’s ugly head while watching the real (or fake news).

We hear it in the constant barrage of negative political rhetoric.

We think it when we relive our past failures.

We feel it each time a hate crime is committed, and it can be…frightening.

But with all the darkness around us, Psalm 34:5 assures us that “Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed.” This was the conclusion for a once fretful psalmist, finally able to take his eyes off of his circumstances (the darkness) and lift his countenance toward the Lord (the True Source of Light).

In a nutshell, he changed his focus and that one decision produced radiating life-giving joy. And it built up his confidence.

In the natural, we see nothing about his situation change immediately, except the psalmist’s hope. Hope that the natural circumstances would sooner or later change for his good, as well. Hallelujah!

We should all do this in practice: Believe what we cannot see – yet.

Imagine the people we could reach, even without words, if they see us joyful, smiling, even in stressful times; taking the high road when someone takes the low one; standing up with confidence when the things of this world try to push us down.

Let’s remember that we always have a choice. So look up, stand straight and shine, radiantly at all times.

Prayer

“Dear Father God, in the name of Jesus, help us to shine for You today and draw others into Your loving presence. Help us by Your Spirit to armor up, act in faith, standing on Your authority according to Ephesians 6:11-13. And, may our light overcome every dark situation. Amen.”