I was in total darkness! It was a thick, complete blackness that swallowed up all markers of my world. I could see absolutely nothing deep inside the cave I was exploring. But one thing kept me from panic — the flashlight in my pocket. As I rested my hand on it, I knew that with one slight touch, I would have light again. That brought me peace.

Life sometimes presents dark moments when all the normal markers that guide us seem to disappear. In those moments, what is it that will provide an unshakeable grounding? What will pierce the darkness? If only there was a flashlight for these moments….

God is the source of light in these dark moments. God, who is good, wise and all-powerful, invites us to steady ourselves in his trustworthy embrace. In the shadowy moments, the sureness of his presence and love provides a peace not based on our circumstances.

American poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow had such moments. He wrote,

“And in despair I bowed my head; 
‘There is no peace on earth,’ I said. 
‘For hate is strong, 
and mocks the song 
of peace on earth, good-will to men!’ 
Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: 
‘God is not dead, nor doth he sleep! 
The Wrong shall fail, 
the Right prevail, 
with peace on earth, good-will to men!’”

Let God be your flashlight of peace. Trust in his good and perfect plan, even in darkness where the reality of that plan seems fleeting.

God, thank you for the light of your presence and the perfect peace that comes as I trust in you. As my mind lingers on the truth of your love, wisdom and power, may I be released from the grip of any darkness and move into the realm of your light and peace. Thank you. Amen.

Go Deeper — What robs you of peace? What make you worried or discouraged or pushes you to despair? How does the character of God and his presence cast light on your circumstances? Are you willing to trust God?



Tags: Peace Isaiah 26
Photo Credit: Fabrizio Conti