“The Lord went in front of them in a pillar of cloud by day, to lead them along the way, and in a pillar of fire by night, to give them light, so that they might travel by day and by night.” 

Exodus 13:21 (NRSV)

True confession: I have become addicted to those home improvement and home design shows. It drives my husband crazy because I can always find one of those shows to watch 24/7, and as a result, his “Honey Do” list continues to grow.

One thing I have picked up in viewing a design series is the importance of lighting. Just the right light will warm up a space instantly. It can add that finishing touch.

Not so long ago, we added a lamp to our dining room. Wow, what a difference. It made the room so inviting. We catch ourselves walking by that room and commenting about what a great addition that light is to that space … what a huge difference it makes.

Now, that lamp is one of the few we leave on throughout the night. Can you guess why? It certainly isn’t because we are using the light while we sleep. We leave on a couple of lights in various places in the house for the warm, safe glow they provide. Should someone get up in the night, there is a light on to help illuminate the way. These lamps are our grown up night lights. The darkness can be scary no matter how old you are and without a light in the dark you compromise your safety increasing the likelihood of bumping into things, stumbling, or falling.

In the same manner, God is there for us – 24/7, guiding us by day and by night. Just as God provided guidance and direction for those in the wilderness, he desires to provide that same clear direction for us in our day to day lives. He is always there for us – to light our way and keep us from stumbling – to make us safe.

But, do we remember to leave the light on?

Just like those design shows that provide tips on enhancing a room with light, the Bible reminds us God is the Light of the world. He is the one who enhances our lives. 

Sometimes after we add God to our lives, we neglect to include Him all day, every day.

Sometimes, when the darkness comes, we forget to leave the light on. We allow ourselves to move through life bumping, stumbling, and falling when the answer is so simple. Keep the one true Light on in your life – all the time. 

“Jesus said, ‘I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.’”     John 8:12

What a great reminder to Leave the Light On!