A Daily Purpose Day 123

By Detria Moore

A while ago, I had a conversation with a family member who found herself in a dire and challenging situation caused by her own actions. She was a believer. So as we discussed possible outcomes, there was only one way this situation could play out, as the Bible is clear on that matter. I sat astonished as she started discussing alternative options that were not Christ-like. Personal benefit, freedom, and want to keep the situation hidden were the main factors in her decision-making. 

While she felt bad about the deliberate wrong choice she would make, it was not a deterrent. 

We are living in a time where people are choosing darkness over light. It makes sense because the Bible tells us this would happen. But why? There are two intriguing things to note in John 3:19:

1. The first part of verse 19 provides a clue as to why some people choose darkness. It’s part of the judgment. Judgment here means verdict- the consequence of those condemned because they have chosen not to believe. Their fate is to choose darkness even though the light has come into the world. 

Why?

2. Because they don’t want their evil deeds exposed! Darkness allows for things to hide. When people don’t like their sins exposed, they will always choose darkness. Light, however, reveals and illuminates. It reveals our sin, which leads us to recognize our need for a Savior and forgiveness. It illuminates the greatest gift given to humanity. 

In John 8:12, Jesus says I am the light of the world. By choosing the light, we are allowed to draw closer to God. Notice that these verses in John 3 take place as Jesus is describing to Nicodemus what is necessary to be born again and have eternal life. Jesus explains that the light has come not to condemn the world but to give eternal life. 

This light, Jesus Christ, allows us to see where our lives need an overhaul. We can petition the help of the father and the holy spirit in changing us to be more like Christ. That should be our goal. It’s not always pretty, but it’s necessary. 

The difference between the sinners and the saints does not lie in our sinfulness. We’re all born with a sinful nature. The contrast is in our attitude about Jesus. 

The sinner will not choose Jesus because they don’t want their sins uncovered and revealed. Maybe they’re 

• too ashamed
• unwilling to give up their ways
• don’t believe Jesus can help.

 The believer, however, recognizes that choosing the light draws them closer to God. To heal our sin-sickness, we may need to endure the temporary discomfort. When we choose the light and our sins are no longer in the dark, we must recognize that as a good thing. The healing begins!

2 Corinthians 4:17, “For this light momentary affliction is preparing us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” 

Friends, I pray you will choose the light. Don’t be afraid about what it may reveal and the necessary work. Our father doesn’t expose us just to have us condemned and ashamed. He wants to help us and change us from glory to glory.