What if I told you that you hold the power to change your life right now? You can step into a life of purpose, open the gifts within you, and walk boldly into the future you’ve been dreaming of. The choice is yours. But here’s the catch: it’s not just about the choices you make—it’s also about the ones you don’t make.
Let me share a story—a real-life example—about how light can shine even in the darkest times.
Most people who know me might assume I’ve always been this way—the kind of guy who greets everyone with a smile and would give away the shirt off his back. Well, let me tell you, that hasn’t always been the case. Truth be told, I probably wouldn’t give you the shirt off my back today—but I’d happily buy you one! I grew up in Boston, Massachusetts, in a neighborhood where poverty and crime were the norm. By all accounts, my surroundings were pure darkness. Yet even in that darkness, a light was always there, waiting to guide me.
At an early age, my mother signed me and my siblings up at the local Boys and Girls Club to keep us off the streets. That decision changed my life. At the club, I saw opportunities I never knew existed. It felt like the brightest star in the sky was shining on me, showing me there was more to life than the darkness surrounding me. It was there that I learned life’s most valuable lessons, lessons that shaped the man I am today. Even when the streets around me were dark, God’s light was always present, guiding me forward—just as He’s guiding you.
Sure, I could’ve taken the wrong path. Many of my friends did. But Matthew 7:13–14 reminds us there are two roads: one wide and easy, leading to destruction, and one narrow and difficult, leading to life. We each have a choice.
Later in life, after college, I found myself hanging out with a group of tough guys who weren’t impressed by my education. I thought I could balance it all—keep one foot on the narrow path while dabbling in the wide road. But those choices came with consequences. I found myself on a path that led closer to darkness. Yet, even in those moments, there was still light inside me—a light God had placed there, patiently waiting to guide me back.
One day, when I was at my lowest, God’s light broke through the darkness in my life. It was as if scales fell from my eyes, and I could see clearly for the first time. From that moment on, I chose to turn away from darkness and toward the light.
Here’s what I’ve learned: light and darkness coexist. Choosing the light doesn’t mean life gets easier. In fact, the brighter your light shines, the more the darkness notices. But no matter how hard it tries, darkness cannot overcome the light God has placed within you.
The world will tempt you with quick fixes—temporary pleasures and promises of success. But what do those things cost you? With God, the blessings are abundant and eternal. The choice is yours: light or darkness.
Romans 8:37 reminds us, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” With God, you’ve already won.
Some of us are stuck. We’re in relationships we know we shouldn’t be in. We’re hanging out with people who pull us away from God. We’re staying in jobs God told us to leave long ago. Why are you still there? Why are you still stuck? Fear is often the answer. But Joshua 1:9 tells us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
What if the life you’ve been praying for is on the other side of that fear?
So, what will you choose? Light or darkness? God’s truth or the world’s distractions? Today, you can decide to walk in the light and embrace the purpose God has prepared for you.
Darkness may try to fight you, but it cannot win. Look in the mirror and remind yourself:“Happiness is within me. Joy is within me. Greatness is within me—because God is within me.”
Take a moment to reflect. What’s holding you back from stepping into the light? What’s one decision you can make today to move closer to the life God has for you?
Share this message with someone who needs to hear it. You never know how God can use a simple act to change someone’s life. And as you move forward, remember: you’ve got this, because God’s got you.
Say this prayer with me:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for shining Your light into my life. When I face choices, remind me of the greatness You’ve placed within me and guide me to walk boldly in Your purpose. Help me trust Your plan over the distractions of this world. Awaken my spirit to Your truth and surround me with Your peace and favor.
