Are You Stumbling in the Dark?

It’s one thing to take a walk on a bright, sunny day in unfamiliar territory—you might not know exactly where you’re going, but you can still see the path ahead. It’s a completely different experience trying to walk that same path in the dark… which could lead to stumbling in the dark.

Many people are living their lives in darkness. Their eyes have become so accustomed to it that they don’t even realize how much they’re stumbling. They don’t know God, His ways, or His presence. But occasionally, they’re exposed to the light of Jesus Christ—and we are called to be carriers of that light to them.

The Four Types of People

This morning, I want to talk about four categories of men and women who walk different paths.

1. Those Who Have Never Encountered Jesus
   There are men and women who have never been exposed to Jesus Christ. They live their lives focused solely on their careers, their dreams, and their daily pursuits, unaware that Jesus is available to guide and lead them.

It’s not that there’s anything strange about them—they simply don’t know what they don’t know. It’s our job, as believers, to share the light of Jesus with them.

Yet, we must remember: when you shine a bright light into someone’s eyes who’s been in the dark, the first instinct is to turn away. In the same way, when we share Christ, some may initially react strongly. But if we lovingly continue to show them the light, over time, they’ll grow accustomed to it, and their hearts can begin to open.

2. Those Who Have Drifted Away
   Then there are believers who once walked in the light but have slowly drifted into darkness.

These are men and women who attend church faithfully yet gradually become desensitized to the world’s darkness. Little by little, they tolerate things they once rejected. It’s a subtle and dangerous drift.

They’re no longer moved by God’s presence as they once were. They walk in a dimmed light, almost unaware of how far they’ve slipped.

3. Those Who Are Stumbling Along
   Another group finds themselves stumbling along life’s path—distracted, discouraged, and unsure of where they are going.

These are people who once thrived in church, enjoyed the fellowship of believers, and walked closely with God, but now find themselves wandering in darkness, disconnected from the strength and encouragement they once knew.

Sometimes, it happens when someone tries to live for God only on Sundays but walks in darkness the rest of the week. Eventually, their spiritual footing weakens.

4. Those Walking in the Light
   Finally, there are those walking in the light—who stay close to God’s Word, who allow His commandments to guide them.

God’s Word is clear:

“Walk while you have the light, lest darkness come upon you.”
Because when you walk in darkness, you don’t know where you are going.

The Word of God acts as a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. When life becomes difficult, His Word shines the way, keeping us strong and steady through every challenge.

The Beauty of God’s Light

Many people resist God’s light because they fear it will constrain them. But the truth is, it’s darkness that limits us!

God’s commandments are not meant to bind us but to free us. His laws are light, and they illuminate the path toward joy, peace, and true freedom.

The Bible says:
“The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart. The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.”

When we live in darkness too long, our spiritual eyes adjust to it. But when we return to the light of God’s Word, our vision becomes clear again, and we can walk securely and confidently.

Jesus: The Light of the World

Jesus declared:
“I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness but shall have the light of life.”

We don’t have to stumble in the dark. We can walk securely, with strong spiritual footing, because our foundation is Jesus Christ. His Word holds us up through every trial and strengthens us during times of weakness.

The Bible reminds us that Jesus came into the world so that we wouldn’t have to walk in darkness.
“Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.”

Let Your Light Shine

Once we’ve received the light of Christ, we’re not meant to hide it.
“Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, so that it gives light to all that are in the house.”

We must let our light shine—not forcefully, but gently and lovingly—so that others are attracted to the hope we have. Like moths drawn to a flame, people should be drawn to the light of Christ in us.

Choose the Light

Many will cling to darkness because it feels familiar, but we are called to gently and lovingly invite them into the light—not to shame them or expose them—but to offer freedom, hope, and a fresh start.

Jesus is real. His love, His mercy, and His death on the cross are real.
And His light is powerful enough to transform every life, no matter how deep the darkness.

At creation, God’s very first command was:
“Let there be light.”
And when His Word goes forth, it brings light.

Today, I encourage you: walk in the light, live in the light, and let your light shine for others to see.