Shining in the Darkness

HOW TO SHOW YOUR BRIGHTNESS

Joseph had dreams and visions from God, but he didn’t step forward to ask his father to help him reach the land of his destiny. Before long, Joseph found himself sold into slavery. While in his father’s house, and even as Potiphar’s servant, he was not shining the way God intended. He only began to show glimpses of brightness when he was placed in Potiphar's household, believing he had finally arrived at his destination.

However, God had greater plans. A scandal was allowed to unfold, causing Joseph to descend into a darker place—prison. It was in this prison that Joseph truly discovered his purpose. Sometimes, it is in our lowest moments—when we feel trapped, rejected, or facing challenges—that our true light begins to shine. Joseph’s prophetic gift, which was dormant in his father’s house, came alive in the prison.

This teaches us an essential truth: sometimes, you only discover your light in the darkest of times. When Joseph found himself in prison, it was not a place of defeat but a platform for elevation. It was there that he encountered Pharaoh’s servants, leading him to his divine appointment with the king of Egypt. Similarly, your darkest moments could be the backdrop for your greatest breakthroughs.

When Jesus walked the earth, He was known as a good teacher and healer. It was not until He went to the cross and faced the darkness of death that His true identity as the Savior of the world was fully revealed. The cross, a place of pain and deep darkness, became the stage for Jesus’ greatest victory.

Just like Joseph and Jesus, God sometimes allows us to go through dark seasons to reveal our brightness. He orchestrates events that push us deeper into our destiny, even when it feels like everything is falling apart. We may be tempted to believe that darkness is a punishment, but often it is an invitation to rise to the occasion and let our light shine in the midst of chaos.

Darkness is not to be feared but embraced, for it is in the midst of confusion, uncertainty, and trials that we can show the world the light within us. As Matthew 5:14-16 says, "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

When you are going through dark times—whether it’s financial struggles, rejection, or difficult relationships—remember that your brightness is not dependent on external circumstances. The light God has placed in you is designed to shine through the darkest moments of life. It is in the midst of adversity that your true brilliance is revealed.

Consider Samson. His greatest victory came in his darkest hour when he was captured and blind. It was during that time that Samson called on God and brought down the enemy's temple, fulfilling his divine assignment (Judges 16:28-30). Your greatest victories are often born out of your most challenging trials.

When you understand that your light is not determined by your circumstances but by the God who lives in you, you can shine even in the darkest seasons. God uses the chaos around us to bring forth His glory. Darkness does not have the final say—your light does.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the challenges and trials that shape our lives. Help us to see these experiences as opportunities for growth and transformation. Grant us the courage to embrace our darkness and the wisdom to discover the hidden brilliance within us. May our light shine brightly in the midst of darkness, leading others to You. In Jesus' name, Amen