Light vs. Darkness

Posted on June 16, 2015 by America's Keswick in Freedom Fighters

Light Vs. Darkness

John 1:5 The light shines in the darkness, & the darkness has not overcome it.

Thanks be to God that we may always hold fast to this great exhortation, remembering that for all of eternity past until His kingdom comes, the forces of darkness will never be able to overcome the light.

While serving at Calvary Chapel Kensington’s Rock Ministries, I was privileged to minister at many community outreaches where the Gospel went forth. Sinners became saints and dead men passed forth unto life; it was truly an amazing experience. On one day in particular, I witnessed something extraordinary. An event was held where athletes came from far and wide to compete in various combat sports (boxing and jiu-jitsu). Onlookers watched both skilled veterans and first time fighters test their heart and technique in the ring or on the mats.

At one point a talented boxer from our gym (known for his sweet and gentle spirit) walked to the ring in preparation for the next bout. I looked across for his competition and saw a large muscular man jumping up and down breathing curses, he was filled with rage. Immediately I feared for my friend, I doubted he could win and was intimidated by the darkness found in his opponent.

This is what the Holy Spirit had brought to my remembrance, “the darkness cannot overtake the light.” It is true that the darkness is formidable; its tendency is to invoke fear in the hearts of men and has a knack to blind even the mightiest men of valor. More importantly what is true of darkness is its inability to exist while in the presence of even the faintest of light.

“All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle” –Francis of Assisi

My friend fought valiantly and lost in a close decision.  He conducted himself with sportsmanship and tact. He was a godly example of a Christian Athlete and certainly was a winner in the eyes of his God. He went to his opponent’s corner and loved on them, encouraged them, and thanked them for the opportunity. Though he was reviled he did not revile back.

I think of Stephen the faiths first martyr (after Christ), how he saw the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God. Though being slandered and stoned Stephen knew the victory had already won, he was defeated in the eyes of them who are of this world, but before his gaze was the Prince of Peace standing to receive him.

As we live out our time doing the work of the Master, I encourage you to invest in eternal triumphs. Remember that victory in the Kingdom of God and victory in this world are in dramatic opposition. Though it may appear you are being defeated look unto heaven remembering that the darkness did not overcome the light. Blessings. Troy Fink is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and is serving with Chaplain Bill Pruitt at New Hope Philly. This is his first Freedom Fighter blog.

Daily Bible Reading: Jeremiah 30-31; Matthew 26:1-25

Think About This: The great preacher Marshall Keeble used to say, “If God tells me to jump through a brick wall, it’s up to me to jump, and it’s up to God to make the hole.”

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: You will show me the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11