call out of the darkness
Author: Ayodeji Oludapo
Published Date: July 17, 2024
Devotional Thoughts
As Christians, we believe in the transformative power of God’s love and grace. One of the most profound aspects of this transformation is our journey from darkness into light. The Bible often uses the metaphor of light and darkness to describe the transition from sin to righteousness, ignorance to knowledge, and death to life.
Darkness can take many forms. It can manifest as addiction, infidelity, oppression, or any behavior that leads us away from God's light. These dark places can seem overwhelming and inescapable, but God's call to us is clear: He wants to bring us out of the darkness and into His marvelous light. Understanding and responding to this call is essential for our transformation and healing.
The apostle Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus vividly illustrates this transformation (Acts 9:1-19). Paul, then known as Saul, was a fierce persecutor of Christians, living in spiritual darkness. However, an encounter with Jesus changed everything. A bright light from heaven blinded him, symbolizing his transition from spiritual blindness to sight. Through this experience, Paul was called out of darkness and became one of the most influential apostles, spreading the Gospel and guiding others to the light of Christ.
Practical Reflections
Recognizing Our Darkness: The first step in moving from darkness to light is acknowledging our own sin and brokenness. 1 John 1:8-9 reminds us, "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." Admitting our need for God’s grace opens the door to transformation.
Responding to God’s Call: God’s call out of darkness is a call to a relationship with Him. Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12). Responding to this call involves committing our lives to follow Christ, seeking His guidance and direction.
Living in the Light: Once we are called out of darkness, we live as children of light. Ephesians 5:8-9 encourages us, "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth)." This means living in a way that reflects God’s character and showing love, kindness, and integrity in all we do.
Shining for Others: Our journey from darkness to light is not just for our benefit but also for those around us. Jesus taught, "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden" (Matthew 5:14). As we live in the light, we become beacons of hope for others, pointing them to the transformative power of God’s love.
Conclusion
Being called out of darkness into God’s marvelous light is a profound experience that changes everything. It is a journey from sin to salvation, despair to hope, and death to life. By recognizing our darkness, responding to God’s call, living in the light, and shining for others, we fulfill the purpose for which we were created. Let us embrace this calling with gratitude and joy, knowing that we are God’s special possession, chosen to declare His praises.
Reflection Question
How have you experienced God calling you out of darkness into His light? In what ways can you shine His light to those around you?
Scripture Reading
1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."