OVERCOMING THE DARKNESS
Many times, a situation seems hopeless at first, but upon closer
examination is not. Other times, something ugly turns out to be
beautiful.
Sometimes, the difference is in how we look at it.
Today’s verse deals with how we view the world around us and how
that affects us inside. If we view the world with a clear eye,
untainted by negativity, we can see the beautiful world God has
given us and enjoy it. We call it “waking up on the right side of
the bed.” Unfortunately, many of us do not do that every day. No
matter that it actually is the same side each day --- our
perceptions change with what is happening in our lives daily. If I
am fighting with a friend, or if I can’t seem to find enough time to
get everything done, or if I just don’t feel good, my perception on
everything that day is negative.
This verse wants us to recognize that change in perception. When
we don’t feel our best or something angers or upsets us, it
immediately affects how we feel and see everything around us. More
often than not, whatever is so dreadful will resolve itself in time,
but we don’t see that. All we see is how bad it is now. These
negative feelings take over and ruin the entire day for us. We must
try our best to overcome that negativity. “How great is the
darkness!” When we are feeling bad, everything becomes bad,
even when it is something good. Instead of giving in to despair,
anger, and depression, we need to realize that the darkness caused
by these feelings should not become our view on the world. We need
to have clear eyes, not darkened eyes. Smile --- God has given us a
beautiful world and many days to enjoy it!
Dear Lord, thank you for the beautiful and glorious world you
have given me. Please help me to see that, even when I am troubled.
Please help me to not let negative feelings ruin my days, and please
help me to keep seeing clearly. Amen
Emily Johnson
12th grade student
