Soul Care Part 2: Solitudeনমুনা

Prepared for the Dark

“Don’t forget in the dark what you learned in the light!” Have you ever heard that saying? This isn’t a Bible verse, but it’s advice. The idea is that you will have some “in the light” moments with God. Perhaps it was a very timely scripture passage that opened your eyes a little more to the awesomeness of God. Or maybe it was an answer to a prayer that gave you a great sense of His faithfulness. Perhaps you’ve had quiet times with prayer, Bible reading, and worship that left you feeling closer to God than ever before. But then the busyness takes over. Or maybe you are faced with a difficult situation or even a tragedy. In the dark, it’s hard to know what to think or what to do. So, many times, if we can just recall what we learned, or experienced in the light, we can find strength, hope, peace, and even joy.

But, to remember in the dark what you learned in the light, you must first have those “in the light” moments. This is where solitude comes in. You will gain a deeper knowledge of who God is and His ways. This will be your light. The overwhelming sense of His love, His faithfulness, and His vision for you will be light to you in the dark days.

In Psalm 13, King David is clearly having some dark days and feeling confused, even about God. But as you may already know, King David has had many other “in the light” experiences with God. Pay attention to the truths he draws upon in his time “in the dark.”

Ask Yourself:

- What have been your most memorable “in the light” moments?

- How have those moments helped you?

- When is the last time you have had one of those moments?

- What are you doing, or not doing, that could be affecting the frequency of those moments?

Pause to Pray:

Oh God, the Father of light, thank you for revealing … Help me to recall this truth when …

Take the Next Step:

Memorize Psalm 13:5-6. You can do it!