Light for Darkness

David faced a crisis. Fleeing from King Saul and the army of Israel, he felt hopeless. It was as if he was being strangled by “the cords of death.” These feelings came in waves, with an intensity that “terrified” him. Overwhelmed with darkness and gloom, he didn’t know what to do or where to turn.

How did David respond? “In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried to my God for help” (vs. 4-6).

David took refuge in the Lord and realized He was his strength and rock, his fortress, deliverer, and stronghold, his shield and “the horn of my salvation.” Having called “upon the LORD,” he knew that He “is worthy to be praised.” Because he called on God, he was “saved from my enemies” (vs. 1-3).

God heard David’s cries and delivered him in a powerful way. The world no longer looked so dark and desperate. God had provided him with light.

When David said that God “illumines” his darkness, he used a Hebrew word that also is found in Isaiah’s prophecy about the coming Messiah: “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them” (Isaiah 9:2). The birth of Jesus changed everything, for He was the “Light of the world” (John 8:12). Today, He still brings light to all who call on Him—light when we face crises, light to give us hope, and light to point the way for decisions.

Do you feel surrounded by darkness? Do you face situations that seem hopeless? Do you need wisdom? Like David, turn to God. Cry out to Him. Be confident that He will provide you with Light and illumine your darkness.