If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," Psalms 139:11 NIV
Read Psalms 139
On Monday afternoons, we pick up our grandson William (age 3) from school and spend a few delightful hours with him. We play one game in the car, during which he covers his eyes from the rear seat and says, "Talk about me while I'm hiding." Last week, at the playground, we played hide-and-seek; William and Papa Tim hid while Nana Janice searched (she didn't have to look very hard.) But to William, the idea of hiding is the most fabulous fun.
Sometimes, we close our spiritual eyes and falsely persuade ourselves that God can't see us. We choose to do our misdeeds in the dark, deceiving ourselves that our sins are transparent to His knowledge. Though we know this is untrue in our hearts, we try to justify our actions in that moment of sin.
In Psalm 139, David reflects on God's omnipresence, His intimate knowledge of humanity, and the assurance that God is always with us. The psalmist marvels at how God knows our innermost thoughts and experiences, even in the most secret places.
In his preaching, Jesus also talks about this human frailty: "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed." (John 3:19-20)
Instead of playing these foolish, deadly, sinful games, we should conduct our lives knowing that our actions cannot be hidden from God. Closing our eyes and doing our deeds in the dark accomplish nothing. It's spiritual energy wasted. Instead, we should live unashamedly in the truth of the light (John 3:21), inviting God to search our hearts and guide our steps (Psalms 139:23-24).
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and reverence. We thank You for the precious words that remind us of Your unwavering love, grace, and truth. As we meditate on Your scriptures, may we seek Your presence and guidance.
Father, search our hearts. Reveal any hidden sins, pride, or wrong motives. We long for integrity and sanctity. Guide us on the path of righteousness and lead us toward everlasting life.
Lord, help us choose the Light. May we walk in truth, exposing our deeds to Your scrutiny. Let our lives reflect Your love and goodness, shining brightly in a world often drawn to darkness.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
