They were all laughing. One of the boys looked down, red-faced. We all called it banter but something had always seemed off about it. Like there was an undertone beneath all that was said.
I was laughing too, so it must’ve been funny. Right? I am a Christian and darkness fled in light, so there couldn’t be any darkness here could there? Yet what was said certainly wasn’t kind or constructive. What if darkness wasn’t there simply in the absence of light, but could also be there when the light died to a barely surviving ember, unable to produce light?
Darkness cannot exist in the light. If it did it would be a paradox and defy all we know of light. Yet what does that mean when darkness is present even when you think your light is shining?
Is your light shining bright?
Very simply put: are you sure you are shining bright? Recently I had a conversation with a group of people who all identified themselves as Christians. Yet five minutes after the conversation ended, I could hear them making lewd comments and cursing. It can seem like you are shining, yet because of fear of judgment, you only shined the light dimly, scared to truly let it burn. Yet that is exactly what is needed; to let our light shine brightly.
Be a light in the darkness
It may seem like an impossible task to get others to speak the truth. Yet all it really takes is a continuous reinforcement of kindness. It could be as simple as giving a few people compliments every day, and surprisingly, this has an astronomical impact. Instead of insulting banter, people will start giving compliments.
If some are unsettled and leave, reach out and offer a way to speak the truth, and if they continue to leave, let them make their decision. It is much more difficult to keep one who chooses truth over one who is forced to stay with it. But always be ready to accept them back in and deliver the truth. Just remember; start with speaking one line of truth over and over again and staying with it.
Walk as children of light
“For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light – walk as the Lord has instructed and you will share your light.” Ephesians 5:8
So Will I by Hillsong
Sharing Hope for the Next Generation
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Oh Bryce, thank you for sharing this message! You are a light and I know how hard it is to shine as a teen. I walked that path many years ago and I did want so much to be that one kind and gentle voice amongst all the darkness. You have voiced it beautifully. You encourage so many teens I know in your world of high school. Please keep sharing how to live and walk the life of Jesus as a young person in a world that promotes darkness so deeply. I love and appreciate your messages so much! Praying for you every day!
Bryce – thank you for sharing this beautiful article about being a light for the Lord in our very dark world, especially to your teen friends. It is so important and I know God will touch hearts as others read your post.
You are such a bright light for Jesus and serving Him so faithfully.
Thanks too for the beautiful song as well. It touched my heart this morning. I pray for you and your precious family many times a day, Bryce, as I know it is a difficult time. Thanks for being a bright light for Jesus. Love n hugs to you and your dear family.❤️?