This is the eighth in a series of articles on the subject—Do You Know God? In this week’s article, we will seek to gain a deeper understanding of the apostle John’s statement, “This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). This is one facet of God’s nature that touches the Christian’s life in many practical ways.
John stated that the message “God is Light” came from Him (i.e., God). The inspired apostle began his account of the gospel of Jesus with many references to this concept. Concerning the Christ sent from God the apostle wrote, “In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it . . . There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man” (John 1:4-5, 9).
Humanity lives in a world of darkness when it refuses to live according to the Light. The Bible describes Satan and his demonic forces as “the world forces of this darkness” (Ephesians 6:12). It is written of those who come to God, “For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:13-14). All men must choose to either live in darkness or seek the enlightenment that only comes from knowing God.
True enlightenment is found in a relationship with God through the work of Jesus. The Lord taught His disciples, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life” (John 8:12). Through the centuries, many have rejected the Light of life in refusing to know God. The reason for this rejection? “The Light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil” (John 3:19, emphasis added). Those who follow the path of evil cannot comprehend the Light of life.
Which path will you choose to take in life? Those who desire eternal life will look to the Light of Life. God is that Light. You can begin today to live in His light. The following blessings will be yours . . .
A Daily Guide For A Better Life. The Psalmist wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 1119:105). Spending time each day in God’s word brings wisdom, instruction, and enlightenment. A better life can be yours as you seek the Light of Life.
A Means Of Overcoming The Power Of Satan. In speaking of his work among the lost, Paul stated that it was his mission “to open their eyes so that they might turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God” (Acts 26:18). In God we find the resources to win life’s spiritual battles, “Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil” (Ephesians 6:10).
An Opportunity To Reflect God’s Light In Our Lives. Jesus instructed His disciples, “You are the light of the world . . . Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14, 16). God is Light. We reflect that light through our own good works.
Do you know the God Who is Light? He provides light for life in His word. He empowers those in fellowship with Him to overcome evil. And, finally, He calls the saved to glorify Him as they reflect His light.