A Prayer for Light as Darker Months Approach
By Vivian Bricker
Bible Reading:
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)
Listen or Read Below:
During the fall months, it is not unusual to feel down due to the lack of sunlight and the changing seasons. While many people love fall, it brings forth seasonal depression for many others. We see the leaves changing, and we take notice of how everything around us is dying. The sunshine and daylight we are used to every day are getting shorter and shorter.
For many people, myself included, fall time reminds us of the reality that one day, we must all face death (Hebrews 9:27). My mom passed away during the fall months, so I always associate this season with the pain and grief of that event. While I wish I could enjoy fall for the season it is, I doubt I will ever be able to smile at the first sight of fall. I understand my situation is not the same for everyone else; however, fall can invoke many feelings of despair, sadness, or emptiness for anyone. Overall, the darker days of fall can feel lonely compared to the bright and sunny days of summer.
But while we watch the seasons change, we must remember that God is always for us and never against us (Romans 8:31). He is always fighting for us and surrounding us with His love (Exodus 14:14). Throughout the seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter, He reigns victorious.
While fall may invoke a heightened awareness of the death that surrounds us, it is worth mentioning that God has already defeated death. Although we will all face death one day, we will go to be with Him in Heaven if we have placed faith in Jesus, the Light of the world (John 8:12), who has already overcome the darkness. This is both the darkness of the world as well as the darkness within our very hearts.
From the Gospel of John, we are told this truth: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). Similar to how we turn a light on in a dark room and the darkness flees, so does the spiritual darkness flee before the Lord. The devil, his demons, and all evil in this world cannot stand in the presence of the Almighty God.
Although the fall time may continue making us feel heavy, we can take comfort in knowing that God has already overcome the darkness. Whether we face spiritual darkness or simply the weight of the approaching darker months, God can give us hope for the future. He is the Light, and He will illuminate the darkest of places.
Let's Pray:
Dear God,
Fall time is a bit hard on me. Whenever I see the darker months approaching, I feel overwhelmed. I need You to help me see the light again. I know that You are the Light of the world and You have overcome the darkness. I will admit, sometimes the darkness still feels too scary for me, and I shy away. Please help me to stand strong in your strength and to know that Your light causes the darkness to flee. This fall, I'm trusting in You, and I know that You have already defeated the enemy.
I give You all the praise and glory, Lord. Amen.
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Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/AlexLinch
Vivian Bricker obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, followed by a Master of Arts with an emphasis in theology. She loves all things theology, mission work, and helping others learn about Jesus. Find more of her content at Cultivate.
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