Everyday Prayers for ChristmasSample

Fear Meets Its Match

Under the right nighttime conditions, the human eye can see the light of a single candle up to fourteen miles away. Apparently, it depends on the landscape, atmospheric conditions, and the brightness of the candle for the flame to be seen at this distance. Even so, our fearfully and wonderfully made eyes seem to be programmed to search for light. This should be easier at Christmastime more than any time of year because light suddenly appears everywhere our eyes can see.

Something to Think About

In Hebrew literature, light is often seen as a metaphor for deliverance. In Psalm 27, David proclaims that the answer to his fear is light. But this is no ordinary light. The light that overcomes his fear is the Lord. He is both a Savior and a shelter in his distress. David knew that God’s presence in times of trouble soothes us because He is a safe, light-filled place we can hide. For David, it didn’t matter if his enemy was an army surrounding him or a lion in the wilderness. The answer is clear when David asks, “Whom shall I fear?” He can’t and won’t name an enemy; sheltered in the light of his Savior, David’s faith is firm, and he is not afraid.

I wonder if we have such confidence in the Lord when our hearts are anxious and unsettled. Is He the one thing we seek? Do our spiritual eyes look for His light in the darkness, hungry for His presence? We should wait expectantly for the Lord. He will come, bringing His glorious light with Him, and fear will once and for all meet its match, for perfect love casts out fear. Oh, that we would have faith eyes to see it.

Prayer

Father, send Your light today. I confess that I am fearful of what the day may bring. I am easily distracted by the cares of this world. Thank You that You made my eyes to look for light. Here, now, in this chaotic world, may my spiritual eyes look for Your salvation that I may have a firm and fearless faith. In Jesus’s name, amen.

Questions for Deeper Reflection

What do your eyes naturally search for when you are fearful?

How have you waited for the Lord and His light to come recently?

Who do you need to encourage to look for the light?