When You Are Surrounded By Darkness

“For you are my lamp, O Lord; the Lord illuminates my darkness.” 2 Samuel 22:29 MEV

A smile came across my face as I picked up my phone and read the text from a dear friend who was sending some encouragement my way. As I began to read, a single tear escaped my eyes and splattered across the screen. My mind started racing as I wondered how she could possibly know all the darkness I was walking through. This struggle of mine was still swirling around in my heart and mind, and I hadn’t even voiced it to anyone.

I put my phone down and immediately flipped to the Bible verse she had sent my way. As I began to read, it was like a light was shining right into my darkness. 2 Samuel 22:29 says, “For you are my lamp, O Lord; the Lord illuminates my darkness.”

I sat there awestruck and speechless for a few minutes. My friend had no clue what I had been struggling with that weekend, but my precious heavenly Father did. He knew of the dark clouds that were circling and the deep waves threatening to pull me under. He knew that I was trying to carry a load too heavy for me that was never intended for me to carry. He knew and he cared enough to remind me that He is my light. Only my great God can shatter any darkness that threatens to come my way.

Sweet friend, He wants to remind you of that truth as well. Whatever darkness is trying to creep into your heart and mind that is threatening to pull you under, look to Jesus. He is your light. The darkness is powerless against our great and mighty God. He is our shield and our fortress. Verse 32 says, “For who is God besides the Lord? And who is a rock? Only our God.”

The words of the prophet Samuel ring true even today – Only our God can light the darkness. He sees what you are going through. He knows what you are wrestling with. And He cares. Forever and always. God didn’t send this verse my way as a reminder for just myself. Dear friend, He sent it to you too. Run to the Light – Run to Jesus. He’s waiting for you.


Heavenly Father,

Thank you for sending me a love note from Heaven through the text from my friend. Your love renders me speechless. I can’t get over how much you care for me and the things that are going on in my life. Forgive me for trying to carry this burden alone. Thank you for being the lamp that lights the darkness. Help me to shine a light for others that need to be reminded of your love and care. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Dig Deeper:

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Take up my yoke and learn from me. Because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 CSB