The Light of the World

In Daily Devotional by Kirk Giles

Bible Verse: “I am the light of the world …” John 8:12 CSB

Scripture Reading: John 8:12-20

How do you usually introduce yourself to people?

Do you talk about your work or share some information about your family?

One of the ways Jesus introduces Himself to people is through a series of statements where He starts with the words “I am…” He does this seven times in the Gospel of John.

Today, we look at His words: “I am the light of the world.”

You do not need to look far to see how dark things feel. The daily news tells the stories of brokenness and pain in the world: wars, economic uncertainty, increased poverty, crime, and so much more.

But the darkness is not only out in the world; the darkness is all around you. People you love are facing stressful situations, and you have your own set of problems.

Jesus enters the world’s darkness and boldly states: “I am the light.”

When you are stumbling in the darkness, you know how much you need light. It helps you see and safely move ahead, gives you perspective impossible to have in the dark, and brings a sense of confidence. Physical light is necessary for physical life, and spiritual light is essential for our spiritual lives.

There is a promise attached to Jesus being the light of the world: if you follow Jesus, you will never walk in the darkness, but you will have the light of life. The darkness of your soul and life can be permanently resolved by following Jesus.

There is a solution to the world’s darkness, and His name is Jesus.

Imagine you were trying to fix your car in the dark, and someone offered you a flashlight so you could see what was going on. The logical thing to do is take the flashlight.

If Jesus is the light of the world, then following Jesus is also the logical thing to do. He will expose what is wrong, but He will also keep the light shining so we can find the help and hope we need in the darkness.

If you are experiencing darkness today – follow Jesus. He is the light you need.

Prayer: God, help me honestly believe Jesus is the light of the world so I can find hope in the darkness around me. Amen.

Reflection: Identify an area of darkness in your life or the world around you. What would it look like to follow Jesus in this area and allow His light to overcome the darkness?


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About
Kirk Giles
Kirk Giles is the co-lead pastor of Forward Church in Cambridge, ON. He was formerly the President of Impactus (when it was known as Promise Keepers Canada). However, his most important roles as a man are husband to Shannon and father to Carter, Joshua, Sydney and Samuel. He is also the author of The Seasons of Fatherhood.
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Kirk Giles
Kirk Giles is the co-lead pastor of Forward Church in Cambridge, ON. He was formerly the President of Impactus (when it was known as Promise Keepers Canada). However, his most important roles as a man are husband to Shannon and father to Carter, Joshua, Sydney and Samuel. He is also the author of The Seasons of Fatherhood.