Monday, August 26, 2013 -- Walking In The Shadows
Monday August 26, 2013
They stumble because they do not obey God’s word, and so they meet the fate that was planned for them. But you are not like that for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. (1 Peter 2:8-9 NLT)
We often describe life in active addiction as darkness and life in recovery as light. We are grateful to God for pursuing us and bringing us out of the darkness we were in. He called us again and again until, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we were able to respond and move towards the light. Sometimes it seems that people hear the call, move away from the darkness towards the light, but then get caught somewhere in-between, "in the shadows."
What is life like in the shadows? Difficult things which happen to us are said to "cast a shadow" on our lives. Many people feel they are living in the shadows when they experience deep grief and pain. However, we have God’s promise of help, strength and safety from enemies, as well as His comforting presence, when we face the shadows of grief, pain and injustice.
Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. Poor people have come to you for safety. You have kept needy people safe when they were in trouble. You have been a place to hide when storms came. You have been a shade from the heat of the sun. (Psalm 23:4, 91:1 NLT, Isaiah 25:4 NIRV)
Not only does God come close to us during these shadowy times, but just as the shade of a tree is comforting and refreshing on a hot sunny day, so the Lord cares for us and provides for us. God’s healing and restoration calms and restores our soul in these safe and shady places.
©2013 Partners in Hope
Audio for Monday, August 26, 2013 -- Walking In The Shadows
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