Light and DarknessShembull

Hope in times of darkness

Sometimes we go through times of darkness. This was the case for the people of Israel in Micah’s days. And they knew that this darkness was a consequence of their own behavior: “I will bear the indignation of the Lord because I have sinned against him”. They were facing God’s judgment, and that was hard. Nevertheless, the prophet expresses his hope in the Lord. Even when he has fallen and sits in darkness, he trusts that God will be a light to him. He knows that God is loving and righteous: “He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love” (Micah 7:18). The Lord will show grace when the people turn back to Him. “He will bring me out to the light; I shall look upon his vindication”.

So, God’s light gives him hope both in the midst of deserved punishment and for the future. God is a light in the midst of darkness for people who know Him.

Do you look to the Lord in times of darkness, even if these are caused by your own sin?