God’s Light: Quantity vs. Quality

 


Recently I’ve been reflecting on light and the power of light to dispel darkness. I’ve been thinking of the power of natural light in the midst of darkness, but also of spiritual light. I’ve felt the radical impact of hope and truth being released into places where fear and hopelessness have created an oppressive darkness. The light of truth shines brightly and the atmosphere shifts. Spiritual light is as powerful, if not more so, than natural light.

I think we often think of light in contrast to darkness. A light, however small, is powerful to eliminate darkness. But even in the light of day, you can turn on a light and see the impact of it.

God has been speaking to me about the “quality” of light versus the “quantity” of light. Perhaps I have previously defined light by comparison to darkness. But light, as used in the scripture, is powerful. The truth and glory of God is not powerful because it is greater than the darkness of evil. God is not good in comparison to evil. He is good by nature! Everything about Him is good, true, righteous and glorious. He was these things before sin was present! He has not become greater because of the presence of sin and evil. Light may shine brighter amid darkness, but light is powerful on its own as well.

The quality and power of God’s light is immeasurable. It is untainted and pure on a level that is difficult for us to understand or describe. The goodness, love and power of God is not diminished by the presence and work of evil in the world. God is unchanging. His capacity is infinite, and the release of love, justice and grace doesn’t withdraw from the available capacity of God. He is not operating with any fear of lack or need to conserve. His supply is endless. There is no end to His heart, His willingness or His ability. The clarity of God is perfect, undefiled and will eternally remain that way.

It is not only in places of darkness, evil or oppression that we release the light of God. Even where there is truth and hope and life; God has more to release and reveal. His light is still powerful. There is always more.  

Jesus claimed of Himself: “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 Later He turned to His disciples and aimed this same declaration at them!  “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”  Matthew 5:14-16

I’m learning that we release the light of God, not just in places of darkness or oppression, but also in places that are already full of light. I’m learning to ask and believe for more, for greater and deeper light. There is always more of God and He responds to our faith and pursuit of more. I’m pursuing the quality of light that accurately reflects the glory of God and heaven.

It is not just the amount of light – but the quality of the light we release that brings about transformation.

 


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