This is the crisis we’re in: God-light streamed into the world, but men and women everywhere ran for the darkness. They went for the darkness because they were not really interested in pleasing God. (John 3:19)
Sometimes when I travel, the lighting in the hotel room isn’t so great. I apply my makeup as best I can, but it’s like getting ready by candlelight and when I get into the car and look at myself in the bright sunlight, I am often horrified–I have on way too much blush and eye makeup.
Because of the dark hotel room, I had no idea I looked like Bozo the Clown. In fact, I thought I was looking pretty good until the natural light proved that was not the case. Light is a powerful thing. It reveals much about us.
This is also true in spiritual matters.
The Bible says that Jesus is the Light of the World. When we look to him and his Word, it also reveals much about us. Through his Word, you may find areas of darkness in your life that you weren’t even aware existed. The Lord may shine his light on bitterness that’s been hiding in a dark corner of your heart. Or on that unforgiveness you’ve been harboring for years. Or on that anger you thought you’d dealt with yet there it is, still lingering in your heart.
Looking into the light of the Word of God can be a little overwhelming. You’ll most likely see some flaws in yourself you didn’t realize were there. (You may find that you also look like Bozo, spiritually speaking.)
But don’t run from Jesus and the Bible when you see your flaws and shortcomings. Instead, embrace the truth and ask the Lord to get rid of the flaws that he so graciously exposed, because he will! God heals what he reveals. God wants you to live free from that mess. He wants you to live happy, healthy and whole. That’s why he has illuminated the situation for you. Finding out you have areas that need work is simply the first step toward breaking free of those strongholds. Let Jesus and his light fill you up and flow out of you. Continue to look into the Word and allow his light to reveal areas where you need growth. As you do, you’ll find that you are being transformed from Bozo to Beauty. Talk about an extreme makeover! Bring it on!
Father, thank you for revealing those strongholds in my life that have kept me from truly living happy, healthy and whole. I give my heart to you and ask that you heal those hurt places in my life so that I can fulfill my destiny and enjoy the journey while fulfilling it. In the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.
