When the Light Burns Low

Last week, one of the most inspirational artists I follow on Instagram revealed that she had received some negative reviews of her new book. Even though she also got many wonderful reviews and positive comments, the heaviness of the discouragement she must have felt really burdened me. For me, this book was a source of encouragement and hope; I just couldn’t understand why anyone would see it otherwise.

If you tend to be an optimistic person, especially one who strives to encourage others, I’m sure you’ve been met with both gratitude and discouragement. Unfortunately, living in a broken world means there will always be at least one person who doesn’t appreciate the light within you.

But does that mean we should give up? Absolutely not.

Of course, easier said than done, right?

When the follower count goes down or friends neglect to notice our efforts or family doesn’t appreciate our gifts, we just want to bury ourselves in a hole and let the light burn out.

If this light were created by us, then perhaps it could be extinguished that quickly. But when we look to Jesus as our Light, we will be able to rise up and remember that there are people who need to see Jesus’ light within us.

For that one person who doesn’t appreciate you, there will be many more who need that smile or affirmation or act of kindness. Perhaps it will change their life forever…or at least their mood that day.

Think back to a time when you witnessed hope. Did your thinking patterns shift, even slightly, after that? Were you more aware of simple blessings or moments to be grateful?

We need you. I’m sorry if anyone has told you or treated you otherwise. By being God’s creation, you are set apart for an incredible purpose. You are filled with the hope that there is more to come. For those struggling to understand their worth, the world is telling them that they are just a replaceable, useless burden. But with Jesus’ light within you, you can show them that they are worthy, beautiful, and loved.

Or perhaps you are the person struggling to see the light again. You are just as worthy and loved and valued as the ones you help.

When you feel your light burning low, reach out to the source of light and ask Him to refill you with His joyful Spirit.

Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”

John 8:12