This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. — 1 John 1:5
What does it mean when the Bible says, “God is light?” Scripture tells us that God is light and there is no darkness in Him at all. He shines in glorious radiance (Psalm 50:2) and the whole landscape shines with His glory (Ezekiel 43:2b). God will live forever with a light so brilliant that humans cannot approach Him (1 Timothy 6:16a).
What Does God Is Light Mean?
God the Father created the light we see on the earth by speaking it into existence. He put light here on earth because chaos reigns in darkness. God saw that the light He created was good because it created a distinction from the darkness (Genesis 1:4). Evil and sin thrive within darkness. The light of God, however, brings righteousness and goodness.
Even though the light of God can be frightening because of its brilliance, God lets a filtered version of it shine into our hearts so that we can know His truth and love. King David said that the Lord was his light and his salvation and a fortress to protect him from danger (Psalm 27:1). God’s light can guide us if we let it. Our darkness and fear will flee when God shines His light on us.
What Does the Bible Mean When it Talks about God’s Light?
1. Jesus, the Light of the World
Just as Isaiah predicted, God’s Son came into the world to make God’s light even more accessible. The Word of life came to earth.
In the beginning, the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through Him, and nothing was created except through Him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and His life brought light to everyone (John 1:1-4).
Furthermore, when light shines in the darkness, the darkness can never extinguish it (1 John 1:5). God sent a man, John the Baptist, to tell us that a great Light was coming into the world (John 1:6-8). Then, when Jesus did come, he said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow Me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life” (John 8:12). He came to show us the way, and it’s always easier to see the way when light shines. When we believe, that light shines within our hearts so we can know the glory of God that was seen in the face of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 4:6).
2. His Word Is a Lamp unto Our Feet
God the Father brought light into the world. Jesus showed us that light. And as referenced above in John 1, the Word of God also shows us the light. It is a lamp to guide our feet and light our path as we walk through this life (Psalm 119:105). This light also instructs us and corrects us when we veer off course so we can get back to walking the narrow but clear path of righteous living.
3. Light for All Eternity in Heaven
The light we see on earth is just a taste of future glory. The Temple of the Lord in Heaven is full of glory that glows in a way that we cannot fathom right now. The city of God has no need for a sun or moon because God’s glory illuminates the whole city, and the Lamb is its light (Revelation 21:23). How amazing it will be to one day see that splendid glory in person!
How God’s Light Shines through Us
We are a chosen people because we believe in the truth of the Son of God. We are God’s own possession, and He chose us to show His goodness to others while we are here on earth. This is a reasonable request; after all, He called us out of darkness and into His wonderful light (1 Peter 2:9). God lifted us up when we needed help. He rescued us from sin and death. So now, we can walk in His life-giving light (Psalm 56:13).
We get to live as people of light! That means that the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin and we get to have fellowship with other believers (1 John 1:7). That’s what walking in God’s light is all about. And when people outside of the faith see this light and love in action, they may come to believe too. It really is contagious because God’s light is so attractive.
Jesus, who is the light of the world, has given us the power to now be lights of the world ourselves. Lights are placed on stands to shed their brightness to all who see them. They aren’t hidden or covered (Matthew 5:14-15). A light points people to the path of righteousness. Being a light is active, not passive. So, let your life and actions shine so that everyone who sees them will praise your heavenly Father (Matthew 5:16).
Ephesians 5 tells us to imitate God in all we do because we are His dear children. Living a life filled with love is a good way to be a light to the world. Seek to love other people every chance you get. Stay away from sexual immorality and impurity. Avoid obscene language, foolish talk, and coarse joking. There is no light in these things. Instead, speak of God and His truth, live with gratitude in your heart, and thank God in all circumstances for He is always with you.
Remember what Philippians 4:8 says: fix your thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, and admirable. Think about things that are positive and worthy of praise. The more you think of such things, the more good words and deeds will spill out of you. If that’s what’s inside of you, that’s what will come out when you’re around others.
Live as people of the light. This light will produce what is good. Expose evil, darkness, and injustice when you have the opportunity. Truth and light squelch evil because evil likes to live in the dark. Sometimes we may think that we only have one little light, and what is that against all the evil in the world? But if you go into a completely dark room and light one match, you will be amazed how well it lights that room!
When you sense God telling you a way to shine His light to the world, be obedient and follow through as soon as you can. Whenever we’re used by God, it brings us much joy. He uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere. Living in this way shines a bright light into this dark world. Hold on tightly to the Word of life, and people will be drawn to its beauty.
Spreading the News that about This
One day, the time to shine God’s light will run out. Jesus told us to quickly carry out the tasks assigned to us because night is coming (John 9:4). One day it will be too late for people to turn to God. Soon, He will set things right.
Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going” (John 12:35).
But until that final day, take every opportunity to shine the light and truth of God to others. Arise and let your light shine for all to see!
Further Reading
21 Bible Verses about Light
What Does ‘God Is Light’ Mean in 1 John 1:5?
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/momnoi
Jennifer Heeren loves to write and wants to live in such a way that people are encouraged by her writing and her attitude. She loves to write devotional articles and stories that bring people hope and encouragement. Her cup is always at least half-full, even when circumstances aren’t ideal. She regularly contributes to Crosswalk. Her debut novel is available on Amazon. She lives near Atlanta, Georgia with her husband. Visit her at her website and/or on Facebook.
Psalm 119:105
ESV / 66 helpful votes
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalm 119:130
ESV / 47 helpful votes
The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.
Hebrews 4:12
ESV / 34 helpful votes
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
John 8:12
ESV / 34 helpful votes
Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
1 Peter 2:9
ESV / 31 helpful votes
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
Matthew 4:4
ESV / 29 helpful votes
But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
Isaiah 55:11
ESV / 29 helpful votes
So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.
Isaiah 40:8
ESV / 28 helpful votes
The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.
Colossians 3:16
ESV / 27 helpful votes
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
Philippians 2:14-16
ESV / 25 helpful votes
Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.
John 7:38
ESV / 24 helpful votes
Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”
Matthew 5:14-16
ESV / 24 helpful votes
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Proverbs 30:5
ESV / 24 helpful votes
Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.
Psalm 33:4
ESV / 24 helpful votes
For the word of the Lord is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness.
1 Peter 2:2
ESV / 23 helpful votes
Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—
James 1:21
ESV / 23 helpful votes
Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
James 1:22
ESV / 22 helpful votes
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
Matthew 24:35
ESV / 22 helpful votes
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
Psalm 27:1
ESV / 22 helpful votes
Of David. The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
John 17:17
ESV / 21 helpful votes
Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.
John 15:3
ESV / 21 helpful votes
Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you.
John 1:14
ESV / 21 helpful votes
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Matthew 7:24
ESV / 21 helpful votes
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
ESV / 20 helpful votes
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
John 8:31-32
ESV / 20 helpful votes
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 1:1
ESV / 20 helpful votes
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Luke 11:28
ESV / 19 helpful votes
But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”
Psalm 119:1-130:8
ESV / 19 helpful votes
Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! …
Psalm 56:4
ESV / 19 helpful votes
In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?
John 3:16
ESV / 18 helpful votes
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
Proverbs 3:5-6
ESV / 18 helpful votes
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Proverbs 2:6
ESV / 18 helpful votes
For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding;
Psalm 119:2
ESV / 18 helpful votes
Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart,
Deuteronomy 8:3
ESV / 18 helpful votes
And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.
Hebrews 1:3
ESV / 17 helpful votes
He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,
Romans 10:17
ESV / 17 helpful votes
So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
Acts 2:41
ESV / 17 helpful votes
So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.
John 6:63
ESV / 17 helpful votes
It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.
John 1:5
ESV / 17 helpful votes
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
Psalm 119:9
ESV / 17 helpful votes
How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.
Psalm 18:35-36
ESV / 17 helpful votes
You have given me the shield of your salvation, and your right hand supported me, and your gentleness made me great. You gave a wide place for my steps under me, and my feet did not slip.
Psalm 18:30
ESV / 17 helpful votes
This God—his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.
1 Timothy 3:16
ESV / 16 helpful votes
Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.
Romans 12:2
ESV / 16 helpful votes
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
John 16:13
ESV / 16 helpful votes
When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.
John 1:1-2
ESV / 16 helpful votes
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.
2 Timothy 3:16
ESV / 15 helpful votes
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,
Galatians 2:20
ESV / 15 helpful votes
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
John 14:26
ESV / 15 helpful votes
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.
John 1:1-3:36
ESV / 15 helpful votes
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. …
Matthew 5:16
ESV / 15 helpful votes
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Psalm 119:11
ESV / 15 helpful votes
I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.
1 Peter 2:1-25
ESV / 14 helpful votes
So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. …
Hebrews 4:2
ESV / 14 helpful votes
For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened.
John 3:16-17
ESV / 14 helpful votes
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
Luke 24:45
ESV / 14 helpful votes
Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures,
Ezekiel 12:1-28:26
ESV / 14 helpful votes
The word of the Lord came to me: “Son of man, you dwell in the midst of a rebellious house, who have eyes to see, but see not, who have ears to hear, but hear not, for they are a rebellious house. As for you, son of man, prepare for yourself an exile’s baggage, and go into exile by day in their sight. You shall go like an exile from your place to another place in their sight. Perhaps they will understand, though they are a rebellious house. You shall bring out your baggage by day in their sight, as baggage for exile, and you shall go out yourself at evening in their sight, as those do who must go into exile. In their sight dig through the wall, and bring your baggage out through it. …
Isaiah 40:2
ESV / 14 helpful votes
Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned, that she has received from the Lord‘s hand double for all her sins.
Proverbs 2:3
ESV / 14 helpful votes
Yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding,
Psalm 119:114
ESV / 14 helpful votes
You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.
1 John 1:7
ESV / 13 helpful votes
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.
1 Timothy 2:11
ESV / 13 helpful votes
Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness.
Romans 10:1-11:36
ESV / 13 helpful votes
Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. For Moses writes about the righteousness that is based on the law, that the person who does the commandments shall live by them. …
John 15:1-17:26
ESV / 13 helpful votes
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. …
John 9:5
ESV / 13 helpful votes
As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”
John 7:1-16:33
ESV / 13 helpful votes
After this Jesus went about in Galilee. He would not go about in Judea, because the Jews were seeking to kill him. Now the Jews’ Feast of Booths was at hand. So his brothers said to him, “Leave here and go to Judea, that your disciples also may see the works you are doing. For no one works in secret if he seeks to be known openly. If you do these things, show yourself to the world.” For not even his brothers believed in him. …
Matthew 7:2
ESV / 13 helpful votes
For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.
Matthew 5:1-18:35
ESV / 13 helpful votes
Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. …
Matthew 4:2
ESV / 13 helpful votes
And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.
Proverbs 4:20-21
ESV / 13 helpful votes
My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart.
Proverbs 4:1-5:23
ESV / 13 helpful votes
Hear, O sons, a father’s instruction, and be attentive, that you may gain insight, for I give you good precepts; do not forsake my teaching. When I was a son with my father, tender, the only one in the sight of my mother, he taught me and said to me, “Let your heart hold fast my words; keep my commandments, and live. Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth. …
Proverbs 4:1-10:32
ESV / 13 helpful votes
Hear, O sons, a father’s instruction, and be attentive, that you may gain insight, for I give you good precepts; do not forsake my teaching. When I was a son with my father, tender, the only one in the sight of my mother, he taught me and said to me, “Let your heart hold fast my words; keep my commandments, and live. Get wisdom; get insight; do not forget, and do not turn away from the words of my mouth. …
Psalm 130:1-135:21
ESV / 13 helpful votes
A Song of Ascents. Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord! O Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my pleas for mercy! If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? But with you there is forgiveness, that you may be feared. I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; …
Psalm 119:160
ESV / 13 helpful votes
The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.
Psalm 19:7
ESV / 13 helpful votes
The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;
Psalm 18:30-32
ESV / 13 helpful votes
This God—his way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him. For who is God, but the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God?— the God who equipped me with strength and made my way blameless.
1 Timothy 3:2
ESV / 12 helpful votes
Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,
1 Thessalonians 2:13
ESV / 12 helpful votes
And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.
Micah 7:8
ESV / 12 helpful votes
Rejoice not over me, O my enemy; when I fall, I shall rise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.
Psalm 33:1-34:22
ESV / 12 helpful votes
Shout for joy in the Lord, O you righteous! Praise befits the upright. Give thanks to the Lord with the lyre; make melody to him with the harp of ten strings! Sing to him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts. For the word of the Lord is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness. He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the Lord. …
Job 23:12
ESV / 12 helpful votes
I have not departed from the commandment of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my portion of food.
Hebrews 11:6
ESV / 11 helpful votes
And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
Philippians 1:6
ESV / 11 helpful votes
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.
John 15:8
ESV / 11 helpful votes
By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
Luke 1:37
ESV / 11 helpful votes
For nothing will be impossible with God.”
Jeremiah 15:16
ESV / 11 helpful votes
Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts.
Psalm 18:28
ESV / 11 helpful votes
For it is you who light my lamp; the Lord my God lightens my darkness.
Philippians 4:13
ESV / 10 helpful votes
I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Ephesians 2:10
ESV / 10 helpful votes
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
Jeremiah 29:11
ESV / 10 helpful votes
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Psalm 139:7-12
ESV / 10 helpful votes
Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me. If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light about me be night,” …
Psalm 12:6
ESV / 10 helpful votes
The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times.
1 John 1:9
ESV / 9 helpful votes
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1 John 1:5
ESV / 9 helpful votes
This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
Romans 1:16
ESV / 9 helpful votes
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
Psalm 37:21
ESV / 9 helpful votes
The wicked borrows but does not pay back, but the righteous is generous and gives;
James 1:17
ESV / 8 helpful votes
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
2 Timothy 2:15
ESV / 8 helpful votes
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
ESV / 8 helpful votes
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
106 I have sworn an oath and confirmed it, to keep your righteous rules.
Modern day candle vs. the lamp
We cannot confuse our modern day candle or candlestick with the lamp.
Their shape was similar to a shell or saucer with a lip. Lamps of stone, metal, and shells were used, although the majority were of pottery.
Candles were not known in biblical times
Today’s candle is made out of wax with the wick inside of the wax.
In ancient times, the wick came out of a small hole for the lamp, and the lamp itself was filled with olive oil to provide light.
Darkness transitions when light shines in.
When you were a sinner, you lived in darkness. Your eyes may have seen light, but your thoughts were not light. You ways were not light. Your conduct was not light. Your entire way of life was dark.
When you commited your life to God, you accepted His light into your life. The darkness that once ruled your life had to give way to God’s light.
The word of God is the lamp that provides light.
The psalmist states that God’s word is the lamp that provides light for their path. The path would be dark, but when the lamp is burning, it provides light that replaces the darkness.
Darkness transitions when light shines in.
When you were a sinner, you lived in darkness. Your eyes may have seen light, but your thoughts were not light. You ways were not light. Your conduct was not light. Your entire way of life was dark.
When you commited your life to God, you accepted His lamp, which is God’s word that provides light into your life. The darkness that once ruled your life had to give way to God’s light.
God’s light searches the deepest area of our life. Even the hidden things.
Read Scripture: Christian Standard Bible translation.
27 The Lord’s lamp sheds light on a person’s life, searching the innermost parts.
The light of God looks deep within our hidden areas.
Just as a lamp shows up what is in the darkness, so God reveals what is in man’s spirit and searches out his inmost being
God sees and knows everything about us.
God knows everything about us, no matter how hard we try to hide our sin or shamefulness from Him.
Read Scripture again: ESV
Read Scripture again: ESV
We cannot hide from our wrong doing either.
We cannot hide from our wrong doing either.
27 The spirit of man is the lamp of the Lord, searching all his innermost parts.
The representation of the “spirit of man”
The “spirit” represents the conscience of man which searches every secret place.
27 The spirit of man is the lamp of the Lord, searching all his innermost parts.
The same Scripture let us know that God’s lamp is the human spirit.
It’s basically our own guilty conscious. When we are wrong, we know it.
When we are wrong, we know it.
27 The human spirit is the lamp of the Lord that sheds light on one’s inmost being.
God’s word reveals our wrong to ourselves.
The “spirit” part of man is our self-conscious. God
Read Scripture: Romans 2:14-15
14 For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law.
15 They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them
This Scripture even proves that we know when we messed up.
15 They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them
The “spirit” represents the conscience of man which searches every secret place.
Inherited inclination because of God.
Because we are made in God’s image and have God’s breath within us, we have an inherited inclination of our actions.
Rather we judge ourselves or not, God will judge the secret things.
14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.
We should always be willing to let the lamp of God light our pathway.
Point 1: God’s Word Is Our Compass
Point 1: God’s Word Is Our Compass
105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
105 By your words I can see where I’m going; they throw a beam of light on my dark path.
The word “feet” indicates to walking and movement. The psalmist depended on God’s word to be a lamp for his feet.
We should ask for God to be our lamp and our light for our feet and path. God’s word is providential.
God takes care of the needs of His creation. He is rich in blessings and pours out His oil and wine on the faithful that follow His instructions.
God’s Word Provides Instructions
God’s Word Provides Instructions
David’s prayer for instructions and guidance.
4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.
thy ways and thy paths refer to the conduct, the way of life that Yahweh requires
God’s paths lead to salvation.
David desired to know God’s ways. David knew that the paths of God were truth and they would lead to salvation.
thy ways and thy paths refer to the conduct, the way of life that Yahweh requires of those who worship him
thy ways and thy paths refer to the conduct, the way of life that Yahweh requires
God’s word provides instructions that will be light unto our path.
Parents should provide instructions.
Many of us are parents or caretakers of children. We have the privilege of taking care and overseeing the development of our future generation.
At times, we as parents and caretakers have to provide instructions.
Sometimes children need a little guidance on their path.
23 For the commandment is a lamp and the teaching a light, and the reproofs of discipline are the way of life,
Correction keeps you on the right path of life.
That teaching should be given from God’s Law, for the parents’ commands, like the Word of God, should be like a lamp and a light, giving guidance to one’s conduct (Ps. 119:105). Discipline (cf. Prov. 1:2, 7), though painful (cf. Heb. 12:11a), helps keep a person on the right path, leading him in the way of life.
teaching should be given from God’s Law, for the parents’ commands, like the Word of God, should be like a lamp and a light, giving guidance to one’s conduct (Ps. 119:105). Discipline (cf. Prov. 1:2, 7), though painful (cf. Heb. 12:11a), helps keep a person on the right path, leading him in the way of life.
Correction should be given in love.
Not one of us like that way correction felt or feels, but it is necessary when applicable.
Correction should happen in the Body of Christ.
17 As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
Correction should be given in love and meekness.
Not one of us like the way correction felt or feels, but it is necessary when applicable.
God corrects us when it is needed.
130 The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.
Point 2: God’s Word Reveals Lurking Danger
Point 2: God’s Word Reveals Lurking Danger
Illustration of “Light the Night”
The mayor of Toronto launched a “Light the Night” campaign. The idea was for residents to leave their lights burning overnight in order to discourage crime. A similar campaign was carried out in the Oakland, California, area, and reports show that crime was greatly reduced—in fact, reduced fantastically.
Christians are the light in a dark.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.
15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.
16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Jesus Christ is the Oil in this lamp.
We are to be the beacon of light that warns the people of calamity and danger.
Jesus Christ should always be the oil and we are the lamp that shines the light in the dark places.
Paul was anointed to be a light for the ungodly.
47 For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, “ ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’ ”
A Christian’s light should shine bright as the dawn.
18 But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day.
I’m all in for letting my light shine.
I am determine at all cost to make it to heaven.
If it takes forgiving those that hurt me. I’m all in.
If it takes loving those that hate me. I’m all in.
If it takes sacrifice from being with family. I’m all in.
If it takes staying close to Jesus and leaving those I’m familiar with. I’m all in.
Whatever it takes to please God and have His grace to shine upon me. I’m all in.
Nature of light explained by scien
Science tells us that light is constituted of three rays, or groups of wavelengths, distinct from each other, no one of which without the others would be light. Each ray has its own separate function. The first originates, the second formulates, illuminates or manifests, and the third consummates. The first ray, often called invisible light, is neither seen nor felt. The second is both seen and felt. The third is not seen but is felt as heat.
In I John 1:5 we read that “…God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” God is Light, and His Word is also light. As we learn God’s Word and live accordingly, our lives will reflect the brilliance of God. The light of God’s Word that we shine forth overcomes the darkness of this world. God’s Word is light, and when we live in that light, we shine as lights in the world.
The first recorded words of God are in Genesis 1:3. He said, “Let there be light.” And what happened? Verse 3 continues, “…and there was light.” God simply spoke it into being. God’s Word brought light into the situation. God’s Word overcame the darkness.
Light shines in darkness, but darkness cannot overcome light.
John 1:5:
And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended [overcame] it not.
When God said “Let there be light,” there was light! The darkness had to flee. The greatness of all that God has done and will do is to make light available to man. The light of God’s Word is available to us today in the Bible, written so that we can learn it, apply it, and benefit from it.
Psalms 119:105:
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
God’s Word is the spiritual light that gives us direction in life. With knowledge of His Word, we can live confidently. The Word of God clearly shows the best ways to walk in life, the paths that will be beneficial to our lives. The light of God’s Word enables us to truly prevail in life and overcome the darkness of this world.
God does not want us to live in spiritual darkness. He designed man to live in the light of His Word. He made this beautiful planet for us to live on beneath a bright, shining sun, and He gave us His Word so that we can live in the spiritual light as well. When we live in the light of God’s Word, we have fellowship with Him. Our fellowship is maintained by faithfully exposing our minds to the light of God’s Word and acting upon it.
Psalms 119:130:
The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.
Having a Bible is not enough in itself to get the light of God’s Word into our lives; we must open it, read it, learn to understand it, and maintain it in our minds. Some of the ways we can maintain the light of God’s Word in our minds are by reading His Word daily, praying, remembering what He has done for us, and staying faithful to do what we know is true. As we make maintaining God’s Word our lifestyle, we are living in the light. Living in the light keeps us out of darkness and puts us in a position to enjoy the benefits of God.
Proverbs 4:18:
But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
As we live in the light of God’s Word, our lives will reflect the brilliance of God, allowing us to shine as lights in this world. Jesus Christ was the light of the world because he lived God’s Word. As we live God’s Word, we are walking as he walked. We are the lights of the world today.
Philippians 2:15,16:
…the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
Holding forth the word of life….
To share anything with others, we must have it ourselves; that is why we must live in the light to shine bright. We reflect God’s brilliance as we live in the light of His Word. It is our joy to faithfully live God’s Word and hold it forth to others so they too can live in the light.
God’s Word is the spiritual light that all men need to prevail in life. Let’s live faithfully in the light of God’s Word and shine as lights, overcoming the darkness around us and making the brilliant light of God available to others.
Click Here to download PDF
Click Here to view on The Way International’s SlideShare page
“This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” — 1 John 1:5 ESV
Light signifies goodness. It literally brightens up our world, and goodness brightens the countenance of our souls. In Christ, the supernatural power of light compels us to goodness, as well.
God the Father defeated the power of darkness and death through God the Son, Jesus, when He raised Him from the dead after the crucifixion. A death Jesus willingly took on, to complete the will of His Father. God’s good and perfect will was to save us from darkness and bring us into the light.
What Does it Mean That ‘God Is Light’ in 1 John 1:5?
“And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.” John 3:19-21 ESV
Light symbolizes goodness, and God is good. He cannot operate outside of who He is. John began his Gospel account emphatically stating Jesus came to earth, God the Son. Jesus is Light, and in Him, there is no darkness or sin. The New American Standard Version of 1 John 1:5 reads, “The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.”
“Light represents what is good, true and holy,” the NIV Study Bible explains, “while darkness represents what is evil and false.” Satan’s goal was to defeat Jesus, but Light defeated him. The Greek word for Light is Phos, any and every form of light. Metaphorically, God is light because light has an extremely pure, brilliant quality.
Light can be seen by any and all. Darkness hides, conceals, and covers, while light exposes truth. Light is powerful and far-reaching, able to illuminate everything. When we seek God, we will find Him. He is faithful to illuminate Truth in our daily lives. In Christ, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, we walk daily in the light of life.
Christ-followers often speak of walking through life with Christ, but John literally reclined on Him at the Last Supper. “The one whom Jesus loved,” is the way John referred to himself in his Gospel account. And he wasn’t wrong. John was Jesus’ earthly best friend, the closest to him, even out of the close circle of three who witnessed Jesus’ transfiguration.
In writing the letter of 1 John, the apostle and faithful friend of Jesus separated the appearance and manner of a soulfully following Christ, as opposed to one only speaking the words. John witnessed the true effect of a changed heart after Christ.
This experience allowed Him to discern wisely and admonish the readers of the letter …and us, today. God is good, and therefore all He does is good and all he makes out of dire situations is good. Moses wrote of God’s goodness and love: “but showing my steadfast love to thousands of those who love me and keep my commandments” (Exodus 20:6 ESV).
How Does the Meaning of the Verse Impact Our View of God?
“to declare that the LORD is upright; he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.” Psalm 92:15 ESV
Psalm 92, written for worship on the Sabbath, sings praise for God’s good works. Moses also wrote of God’s unwavering goodness: “‘The Rock, his work is perfect, for all his way are justice. A God of faithfulness without iniquity, just and upright is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4, ESV).
Our limited perspective only allows us to see what is happening in front of us. We have no ability to see what’s coming next. God is sovereign, omnipotent …in control and always good. “One of the greatest blessings we have to look forward to in Christ is the ability to dwell in a new heaven and earth with Him as our light,” Ligonier Ministries teaches,” Having been set apart through His blood, we are even now beginning to walk, however imperfectly, in this light as we love God and neighbor, especially our neighbors with whom we gather to worship the Almighty.”
The impact this verse has on our view of God is to trust Him more! Scripture advises us to seek God in His Word and pray to Him. Additionally, it’s important to listen, and do, what He says in His Word. We do the next right thing in the context of Gods’ good will for our lives, trusting He’s making good out of all things, despite how dark and pressing the world is.
“In contrast to the evil things brought about by desire,” New Bible Commentary explains,” God will only give a good and perfect gift.” Yet, in our limited ability to perceive and comprehend God, our faith kicks in to carry us onward.
If God Is Light, What Is Dark?
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” James 1:17 ESV
Darkness is sin and evil in the world. We are promised life on earth will be difficult, because of the dark curse of sin. Our enemy seeks to kill, steel and destroy us. He is a deceitful liar, but not creative. We live in a world imploding from false information. How do we know what is true?
We reconcile what we know with God’s truth. “Light suggests the idea that God is open and honest- that he reveals truth,” NIV Quest Study Bible explains, “Light also represents goodness and purity in a moral sense. There are no shadows or dark sides to God; he is perfect and free of sin.” Darkness symbolizes deceit and death. Every human heart wrestles with sinful strongholds hidden in the darkness. The Light of the Lord exposes, brings forward, and frees us from them.
A life touched and guided by the Light of Christ is evident, because of the powerful effect it has on those who truly claim salvation in the Son of God. “It means that if you draw near to God, you do not find a dark and foreboding truth,” John Piper teaches, “You find freedom and hope and joy.”
“The LORD is righteous in all his ways and kind in all his works.” Psalm 145:17 ESV
The world is a hard place to embrace Light and believe in God’s goodness. There are falsities surrounding and dark intentions grabbing for us daily. Injustice abounds and isolation looms, but nothing “will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Paul wrote to the Romans not even “death nor life, neither angels or demons, neither present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation,” could keep the Light from reaching us. (Romans 8:38-39 NIV) We can always choose to turn to God.
The truth John wrote in his letter centuries ago remains true. God’s Word is alive and active. He is not still, but always on the move. He doesn’t require rest when the day is done and the sun sets. He is always close to the brokenhearted, always bringing forth good from dark intentions, and always keeping His promise to care for and defend us for generations to come.
Sources
- NIV Quest Study Bible, Copyright © 1994, 2003, 2011 by Zondervan.
- NIV Study Bible, Copyright © 1985, 1995, 2002, 2008, 2011 by Zondervan.
- NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, Copyright © 2016 by Zondervan.
- New Bible Commentary, Copyright Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship, Leicester, England, 1953, 1954, 1970, 1994 All rights reserved.
Photo credit: © Unsplash/Phil Thep
Meg writes about everyday life within the love of Christ. Join her in the journey at Joy Overflowing. She is also the author of “Friends with Everyone, Friendship within the Love of Christ,” “Surface, Unlocking the Gift of Sensitivity,” and “Glory Up, The Everyday Pursuit of Praise,” and “Home, Finding Our Identity in Christ.” She earned a Marketing/PR degree from Ashland University, but stepped out of the business world to stay at home and raise her two daughters …which led her to pursue her passion to write. Always active in her community and local church, Meg also leads Bible study, and serves as a leader for teen girls.