I have asked my husband more than once to shoot our ceiling fan thinking it was an intruder in the middle of the night. With a flick of the light switch, he shows me everything is well and I am safe. I’m not afraid of the dark, but it does cause me to see things differently, often incorrectly.
Being afraid of the dark is more common in adults than you might think. According to clinical psychologist John Mayer, around 11% of the U.S. population is afraid of the dark. Would you believe it is more common than a fear of heights? Other studies show the statistics of people who are uneasy in the dark are much higher. Luckily, the fear can be addressed by simply allowing a little bit of light in the room. Suddenly, you can see the monster you thought was in your room is just a shadow being cast by the ceiling fan. But what about the other types of darkness we face?
The Darkness
The confusion and frustration we feel can be overwhelming. For example, when you attend baby shower after baby shower yet silently struggle to become a parent. Or, having your marriage end despite the countless hours you spent on your knees praying it wouldn’t. How about feeling the absence of a child or grandchild because of a relational rift or hostile influence in your family? Or, maybe you have had to drop your loved one off at another rehab center, hoping against hope this time they will stay sober.
And let’s not forget about financial darkness. Jobs can abruptly end leaving you to wonder how to make the next house payment. Maybe you can’t seem to get your dream business off the ground when you know in your heart you are on the right path. Or, have you watched a coworker with no integrity be promoted while you struggle to maintain your values in the business world? In this life there will be heartache and uncertainty. So, where is God in these dark times?
There Is Light
The answer is simple: He is the light waiting to be welcomed in to your situation. Just as He was with me the night my attacker threw me in the back of a truck and began the journey to where he would end my life, He is with you. He is there, right beside you, sustaining you with His unending grace.
Have you reached the end of your rope? Does the darkness feel overwhelming? Please know there is hope and a peace available to you that passes all understanding. Just reach out to a counselor, trusted friend or someone in your church community. Allow them to remind you that even in the darkness your heavenly father cares for you, He is for you and will never forsake you. A little light can change everything.