When the Light is Dim

Something happens in the inside in the dark places, when the light is dim. I’m learning the dark places can be a prerequisite to stepping into the fullness of our destiny. God doesn’t send the difficulties, but he can use anything that comes into our lives. In the dark places is where we really grow. In the dark places I find myself praying more, reading more and hungry for more. In the dark places I find myself re-evaluating my priorities. You can choose to prioritize the right things, like family, relationships and the good things that are ahead.

The Stretching is Good

When the light is dim we can make time to realign our vision. We don’t get upset about the small things like, “I didn’t get a parking spot” or “I was stuck in traffic”. The dark places toughen us up. I prefer the good times. We all do. But the good times haven’t brought out the best in me. The lonely nights, and times I didn’t see a way was when I grew. There are blessings in the dark places. The stretching is painful and I don’t like it. I often find myself screaming and moaning, crying out, “God, help me! Where are you?!”

Trust God

When I’ve gone through a great loss there have been times I’ve found it hard to go on. Being faithful, honest and trustworthy in the difficult times can be one of the most difficult things. What I find most difficult asking when I’ve gone through a challenging time is not asking, “Why God?” When I’m trying to figure it out I get stuck. I’m learning that instead of asking, “God, why did this happen to me?” I need to proclaim, “God, you’re still in control!”

“Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

‭‭Joshua‬ ‭1:9‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Go Through the Process

When I’m in the valley or on the island, and I feel as though I’ll never get off, it takes me some time, but with some encouragement and re-evaluating I learn to trust this state isn’t forever. There are times when we all feel broken. Don’t give up hope. Don’t give up your dreams. God will use it to increase you! The bigger the disappointment the bigger the blessing. When a seed is planted it is put in dark ground. In time that seed is germinated, the outer shell breaks off and it begins to grow. But the seed needs the dark place to begin the process! Most of us want the fruit, but we don’t want to go through the process. We don’t want to be uncomfortable or be stretched. But without the loss, the disappointment, or the failure our potential cannot be fully released.

You’re Not Buried, You’re Planted

Without the dark places you may never discover what is on the inside. Time and time again, when I hit this place I feel stuck, at a loss and utterly disappointed. But everytime, God has been on the other side to pull me through and set me on new ground. An elevation takes places, that could not have been possible before. Through the dark places, you’re being planted. You’ll come out better, stronger and bearing much fruit.