One of God’s first acts after creating the earth was to bring in the light – proclaiming it to be a “good” thing
(Genesis 3 & 4). Let’s face it, we do better with some light. Violent crimes, suicides, and depression are more prevalent in the dark. We feel better on a bright, sunny day.
Activity settles in the night, and we have more time for inner reflection, rumination, and worry. However, since we live a good third to half of our lives in the dark (depending on where we live), might we improve our evening outlook?
I’m intrigued with the Biblical subject of songs of praise at night. We’re all familiar with the story of Paul and Silas in prison, singing praises to God at midnight. Suddenly an earthquake shook the foundations, and they were loosed. They stayed and brought the jailer and his family into a relationship with Jesus.
Would singing praises to God at midnight in a rat-infested jail with your feet chained to heavy blocks of wood, after having been beaten, be on your “to-do” list? Not mine! My first reaction would be self-pity, moaning, and complaining – not the “singing praises scenario.” I’m not there yet.
Most of us enjoy a cozy home, with a mattress designed for back support, having had a balanced meal and crawling under a down-filled comforter. And yet, I have heard about ten people in my immediate circle mentioning something about finding it difficult to sleep.
That sacrifice of praise from Paul and Silas caused the very earth to tremble and set the stage for a move of God. In Job 35:10 Elihu talks about “God my maker, Who giveth songs in the night,” to people in distress. A song in the night can initiate breakthrough. What are you singing?
~ Nan Robertson
Christ Fellowship