January 18

January 18

“Everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.” (John 3:20-21)

“The lips of the righteous feed many, but fools die for lack of sense.” (Proverbs 10:21)

Wisdom is to foolishness as light is to darkness. The wise want to walk in the light, to bring God praise and glory. Fools seek darkness so they won’t be found out. When we are exercising godly wisdom, we seek to serve God and help others. When we are being foolish, we care only about ourselves, hide in the shadows, and stumble around in the darkness with no sense. “The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going.” (John 12:35c)

Daphnes and winter jasmine bloom marvelously on a winter’s day, as the lambs of God run to the light. With the mind of Christ¹, the regenerate cannot resist romping in the positive grace of the Lord. The sun vanquishes the darkness and cold with its brightness and warmth. God’s children are attracted to biblical truth, eager to have our little spirits enlarged and challenged, to focus on His grace rather than our shame. As our selfish desires and insensitivities toward others melt away, we are cleansed and renewed. This is the best pain; the burning off of our dross.²

“At one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible.” (Ephesians 5:8-13)

Run to the light little lambs! 

1. 1 Corinthians 2:16
2. Isaiah 1:25